Tampa Child Pornography Investigations Lawyer

Child pornography offenses are among the most heinous crimes, and law enforcement agencies in Tampa, Florida, are committed to investigating and prosecuting such cases rigorously. These investigations involve a series of methodical steps to identify offenders, gather evidence, and ensure that justice is served. If you are facing charges after being investigated for creation or distribution of child pornography in Tampa, Florida, it is important that you understand the repercussions of this criminal offense and reach out to a Tampa child pornography investigations lawyer.

Investigations often commence based on tips from various sources, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) CyberTipline, reports from internet service providers, or proactive monitoring by law enforcement. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office detectives can use a cyber tip from NCMEC regarding suspicious activity at residences where child pornography is being distributed from. Upon consenting to a search, investigators may discover hundreds of child pornography images and videos on electronic devices belonging to the investigated resident. That would subsequently lead to an arrest on potential multiple charges related to child pornography.

Once sufficient preliminary evidence is gathered, law enforcement agencies obtain search warrants to seize electronic devices suspected of containing illicit material. You can expect agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to execute a search warrant at the Tampa residence of the suspects. If the search uncovers child sexual abuse material on any or all electronic devices, this would lead to an arrest.

Investigations often involve collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies. The Tampa Police Department's Cyber Crimes Unit, for example, operates under the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. This national network comprises more than 4,500 law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies dedicated to combating online child exploitation. The Tampa Police Department is an active member of the Central Florida Task Force, working alongside other agencies to address these crimes. Our Child pornography 

Under Section 847.002 of the Florida Statutes, possession of child pornography is a serious felony offense. Each image or video depicting child sexual exploitation constitutes a separate charge. Convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender, which carry lifelong implications.

Under federal law, penalties are equally stringent. Convictions for producing child pornography can lead to mandatory minimum sentences of 15 to 30 years in prison. Offenses involving transportation, receipt, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute child pornography carry mandatory minimum terms of 5 years, with maximum terms up to 20 years. Simple possession can result in up to 10 years in federal prison.

After evidence is collected, cases are referred to the State Attorney’s Office or federal prosecutors for review and prosecution. Prosecutors assess the evidence, determine appropriate charges, and proceed with legal actions. Sentences vary based on factors such as the number of images possessed, the nature of the material, and the defendant's criminal history. 

The legal investigation process for child pornography offenses in Tampa involves coordinated efforts among various law enforcement agencies, adherence to strict legal protocols, and a commitment to upholding justice. Through diligent investigations and prosecutions, authorities strive to protect children and deter potential offenders.

Child pornography investigations are imperative as creation, distribution or possession of child pornographic material is a grave offense in Tampa, Florida. It cannot be overstated that the legal repercussions for those convicted are severe. The life-altering legal consequences include but are not limited to lengthy prison sentences, significant fines and the requirement to register as a sex offender. If you or someone you know is being investigated for creating, distributing or possessing child pornography, it is vital to seek the professional legal assistance of Attorney Will Hanlon and ensure the best possible defense. The legal process is complex, but with knowledgeable representation, defendants can have a fair outcome.

If you are in the Tampa area, call Hanlon Law today at 813-228-7095 or contact us online to set up a consultation.