Reputable DUI And Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Miami-Dade County

Over 5,000 Criminal Cases Dismissed Since 1982

An Accusation Of Cyberstalking Must Be Taken Seriously

If you are under investigation for or facing accusations of cyberstalking, your reputation and freedom are on the line.

Federal laws exist for any type of stalking, including cyberstalking. Using electronic communications technology to threaten bodily injury or death or create emotional distress to an individual could be charged as a federal crime.

In addition, the federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act may also apply, particularly when it comes to secret pictures and audio and video recordings accessed illegally from an alleged target’s computer. Threats of using those images can have serious consequences, mainly when distributed by phone, computer or the internet.

These serious federal charges could result in a prison sentence of five years and a fine of up to $250,000. Enhanced penalties may apply if cyberstalking is charged in conjunction with another offense. A life sentence may be imposed if you are found guilty of allegedly causing the death of another person as a result of cyberstalking.

What Is Cyberstalking?

According to Florida statute section 784.048(d), cyberstalking is defined as engaging in conduct that communicates through words, images, or language by use of email or other electronic communication or accessing (attempting to access) online account information of another person without permission, causing emotional distress without purpose.

Cyberstalking may include such acts as:

  • Harassment
  • Stalking
  • Unwanted contact
  • Sexual abuse
  • Blackmail
  • Extortion

Cyberstalking also may include any intentional act that puts a victim “in reasonable fear” of injury or death or that causes “substantial emotional distress” – when committed using any “interactive computer service or electronic communication device” such as social media sites, email, texting, or any form of cellphone, internet or computer-based communication. In some cases, phone numbers can be disguised on their target’s caller ID.

Is Cyberstalking A Federal Crime?

Cyberstalking is a federal crime. Cyberstalking falls under the federal statute as part of the Violence Against Women Act of 2005, which was amended in 2013 to include stalking by internet or phone. Federal cyberstalking charges may apply even if the alleged perpetrator and victim live in the same jurisdiction.

Cyberstalking is punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison. If cyberstalking results in the death of the victim, a life sentence may be imposed. Furthermore, the FBI or another federal agency will investigate federal cyberstalking cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will prosecute them. The resources and personnel you are up against at the federal level will present a formidable opponent. You need a team that can match and surpass them.

Accusations of cyberstalking do not mean that a conviction is automatic. These types of cybercrimes are complicated, particularly during an age of cutting-edge technology that can be manipulated to conceal identities, specifically fake caller IDs. You have the right to legal counsel.

Exercise this right and speak with a Miami cyberstalking defense lawyer at Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law. We know how to fight for our clients’ rights in federal court and can take the necessary steps to confront an investigation or allegations head-on, mitigate any damage and begin protecting your rights from the beginning.

For Unrivaled Advocates Providing Reliable Counsel, Call Today

Serving Miami-Dade County, we at Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, are qualified and prepared to handle your case. We recommend calling our offices to speak with a Miami cyberstalking attorney about your options and rights at this precise point in time. Your initial consultation is free and confidential, and you can count on the fact that we will be honest and straightforward in our assessment of your federal cyberstalking case.

Call 305-564-4329 or fill out our contact form online today to speak with a Miami cyberstalking lawyer. You can’t afford to waste any time in securing a competent team to defend your interests.