Technological innovation, which has led to more collecting and sharing of personal data than ever before, has also enhanced law enforcement agencies’ ability to identify and investigate identify theft cases. Using the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel database, law enforcement agencies can now access consumer complaints within their jurisdictions about scams, identity theft, and other financial matters. They can then conduct thorough investigations, which lead to arrests.
The federal government and the state of Florida both have stringent laws against and penalties for identity theft, so, if you are being investigated or have been charged with an identity theft crime, you should seek help from an experienced federal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Haas Law, we start working on your defense right away to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Identity Theft Charges
Under Florida law, identity theft can be either a misdemeanor or a felony of the first, second or third degree. The charge generally depends on how many individuals’ personal identification information was used or intended to be used, how the personal identification information was used or intended to be used, and how much was obtained by the fraudulent use of the personal identification information.
Since it is a federal crime to use another person’s identity to commit or intend to commit any federal crime or felony under state or local law, an identity theft charge can end up in federal court. If you are convicted on a federal charge of identity theft, you could be facing many years in federal prison and fines exceeding $10,000. Having an attorney who has experience defending clients in both state and federal court is, therefore, crucial to building the strongest defense possible.
Defending Against Identity Theft Charges
Although you might not have actually used other people’s personal identification information to commit a crime, you can still be convicted of identity theft. The identity theft laws are written in such a way that you can be convicted of the crime even if you didn’t use the stolen identity or identities, as long as you intended to do so.
In cases where intent is in question, a possible defense is to show that you didn’t use a person’s information fraudulently and that you didn’t have any intention of doing so. In other cases, it is possible that the prosecution lacks hard evidence or you have been falsely accused.
Because of the complexities in identity theft cases, it is very important that you have a skilled defense attorney with experience in both state and federal court. If you’re facing identity theft charges, you need an attorney who can build a strong defense, negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, and advocate aggressively for your rights.
Fight Identity Theft Charges with Help from an Experienced Federal Defense Attorney
At Haas Law, we are experienced in helping clients who are being investigated for identity theft or who have been charged with identity theft crimes. We have the knowledge, skills and experience to defend you successfully and achieve the best possible outcome for your future.