How Florida Defines Kidnapping
Kidnapping is a serious offense, and it is a problem that affects the entire country. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, there were more than 400,000 cases of missing children recorded by the FBI in 2014. While many of these cases did not constitute kidnapping, they are a reflection of the severity of the situation across the country.
Each state handles kidnapping cases in its own way, but most treat kidnapping crimes as a felony. If you are facing serious charges like kidnapping, it is important to understand how the state of Florida defines the offense, as well as how to act should you find yourself up against these charges.
At The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., we can evaluate your charges and help you build a defense strategy if necessary. Naples criminal lawyer Mr. Raheb offers a no-obligation consultation to help you understand the laws and potential outcomes, and he has extensive experience handling a wide range of criminal matters. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule an appointment, and read on for more information regarding kidnapping in Florida.
Definition of Kidnapping in Florida
According to Florida Statutes, the term kidnapping refers to confining, imprisoning or abducting another person against his or her wishes and without the legal right to do so. Most kidnapping charges also aim to show that the kidnapper had intentions to hold the individual for ransom, facilitate a felony, inflict harm on the abducted individual or interfere with the performance of a governmental function. If the child is under the age of 13, the state defines kidnapping against his or her will as occurring when the kidnapper holds the child without consent from his or her parent or guardian.
Aggravated Kidnapping
The state of Florida considers aggravated kidnapping a criminal offense. According to state law, aggravated kidnapping occurs when the accused is carrying a firearm or other dangerous weapon even if he or she simply displays or threatens others with it during the crime. Aggravated kidnapping charges may also apply if the kidnapping victim is a police officer, public employee or law enforcement official, or when an individual kidnaps a child under the age of 13.
If during the course of the kidnapping, the accused commits sexual or aggravated abuse, acts in a lewd manner, procures a child for purposes pertaining to prostitution or generally exploits the child, the prosecution will increase the kidnapping charges to an aggravated level. If you are facing kidnapping charges in Florida, you could benefit from contacting a Naples criminal attorney for advice.
At The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., we can evaluate the charges and advise you on how to proceed. We can develop a comprehensive defense strategy and may be able to help you achieve success in the courtroom. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule an appointment to discuss the potential severity of your criminal charges.
