As more and more people have access to the internet, it has become easier to connect and communicate with others electronically. Social media has made it especially easy to send someone else a message or comment on their status updates. Sometimes, as an individual scrolls through another person’s page, they may joke that they are cyberstalking them. Although looking at someone else’s photos or posts does not necessarily equate to stalking, there comes a point when excessive electronic communication with someone else is viewed as criminal behavior.
Florida Law Against Cyberstalking
Under Florida Statute 784.048(1)(d), cyberstalking is a crime that involves engaging in communication without purpose that causes another person to suffer “substantial emotional distress.” This can include words, images, or language sent through email or other forms of electronic communication.
Potential Conviction Penalties
If the individual “willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly…cyberstalks” someone else, they could be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. A conviction could result in a penalty of up to 1 year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.
A person could be charged with aggravated cyberstalking if they make a verbal or nonverbal threat against the other individual. Violators of statute 784.048(1)(d) could be charged with a third-degree felony, which is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
Schedule a Free Consultation with The Wiseman Law Firm Today
If you were charged with cyberstalking, contact The Wiseman Law Firm for trusted legal representation. Our attorney has over 15 years of experience and knows how to navigate the complex process of white collar crimes such as cyberstalking. We will provide the legal defense you need to fight the charges you are facing.
To get started, call us at 407-420-4647 or contact us online.
