Tampa Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

Have You Been Charged with a Sex Crime?

Sex crimes involve some of the harshest consequences of any type of criminal charge. While there are very serious criminal penalties, including incarceration, there is also the prospect of having to live as a registered sex offender after your sentence has been served and the social stigma of being labeled as a registered sex offender.

For those living as registered sex offenders, the conditions can be so restrictive that many people find themselves unable to comply or inadvertently violating their conditions. They then find themselves facing further criminal charges. It can be a never-ending cycle.

But there is hope.

The Laws Involved

In Florida, sexual battery is generally charged under Section 794.011, Florida Statutes (sexual battery), and offenses involving minors under 16 under Section 800.04 (lewd or lascivious offenses). Online offenses are generally addressed under Section 847.0135 (computer pornography; prohibited computer usage; traveling to meet minor). In the federal system, these cases are typically charged under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 2422 (coercion and enticement) and 18 U.S.C. § 2252A (offenses involving the sexual exploitation of minors). Laws change often, so contact Attorney Ron Frey to discuss your case and the current state of the law.

Take Action Before the Evidence Disappears

Building a strong defense against sex-crime charges often hinges on taking action quickly to gather and preserve evidence.

Surveillance footage, for example, may be overwritten. Pictures and messages on social media could be deleted. Witnesses’ memories fade. By acting as soon as possible, you have a fighting chance to save the evidence.

At The Frey Law Firm, LLC, in Tampa, Florida, Attorney Ron Frey knows what needs to be done to gather and preserve evidence. He has represented clients facing a range of charges, including:

• Sexual assault
• Date rape
• Sexual battery
• Lewd or lascivious offenses
• Computer sex crimes

Online cases, including solicitation and undercover sting cases, are explained on our national site: Florida solicitation, traveling, and human trafficking charges.

Are You a First-Time Offender?

First-time offenders often face some of the greatest challenges in the criminal justice system. First-timers believe they will be treated fairly if they speak freely and answer every question the police ask. Unfortunately, that is not how the system works. First-time offenders are often unfamiliar with investigators’ tactics and can be hurt by trusting the process.

At The Frey Law Firm, LLC, we represent criminal defendants of all types, but we focus especially on helping individuals who are in the criminal justice system for the first time. We know how investigators and prosecutors can approach first-time offenders, and we work to protect your rights. As a Tampa criminal defense lawyer, Attorney Ron Frey handles cases ranging from DUI and drug charges to federal fraud.

Now Is Not the Time to Gamble

Your next decision is crucial — you cannot afford to hire the wrong lawyer. At The Frey Law Firm, LLC, we know there are two sides to most stories. We provide our clients with experienced criminal defense representation that can help them avoid the nightmare of a sex crime conviction.

Sex Crime Charges in Tampa and Hillsborough County: What to Expect

Many Tampa sex crime cases begin before any arrest. A person may first learn of an investigation through a call from a Tampa Police Department or Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office detective, a request to “come in and talk,” or, in federal matters, a target letter. If an arrest follows, a person held in custody goes before a judge at first appearance within 24 hours, where release conditions are addressed. The Office of the State Attorney for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit then reviews the case and decides what formal charges, if any, to file. The arraignment, where the charges are read and a plea is entered, comes after that.

Florida law covers a range of sex offenses. Common charges include sexual battery under chapter 794, lewd or lascivious offenses under section 800.04, internet and child-image offenses under chapter 847 and section 827.071, solicitation under section 796.07, and failure to comply with sexual offender registration requirements under section 943.0435, which is generally a third-degree felony. The possible penalties and long-term consequences, including registration, depend on the specific statute and facts.

Early counsel matters in these cases. Detectives may ask for a statement, or ask the person making an allegation to place a recorded “controlled call” to the accused. Statements made before speaking with a lawyer can become central evidence. Attorney Ron Frey can step in during the investigation stage, communicate with investigators and help protect your rights from the start.

If you or a friend or family member faces any stop, search, seizure, inquiry, investigation, arrest or target letter, contact a lawyer.

Florida Sex Crime FAQ

Should I talk to a detective who calls me about an allegation?

You have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. Anything you say can be used in the case, even if the call seems informal. It is generally wise to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. Attorney Ron Frey can communicate with the detective for you.

Is sex offender registration required for every sex offense conviction?

No. Section 943.0435 lists the specific offenses that trigger registration as a sexual offender, including convictions under chapter 794 (with limited exceptions), section 800.04, section 827.071 and certain chapter 847 offenses. Whether registration applies depends on the exact offense of conviction. Failing to comply with registration requirements is generally a separate third-degree felony.

Can a sex crime charge be filed without physical evidence?

Yes. Under section 794.022(1), the testimony of the alleged victim need not be corroborated in prosecutions under sections 794.011, 800.04 and 787.06. That makes careful review of statements, messages, timelines and witness accounts especially important.

Can a sex crime case also be federal?

Yes. Some cases, particularly those involving the internet, interstate travel or child-image allegations, can be investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted in federal court, including the Middle District of Florida in Tampa. Attorney Ron Frey handles both state and federal cases.

What does a sex crimes attorney do?

A sex crimes attorney defends people who are accused of, or under investigation for, a sex offense. Attorney Ron Frey can step in during the investigation stage, communicate with detectives, review statements, messages and other evidence, and help protect your rights from the start. He has been practicing law for over two decades and handles both state and federal cases. Each case must be evaluated individually.

How do I find a sex crimes lawyer in Tampa?

Look for a lawyer who defends people facing sex offense accusations in the courts where the case is pending, and who handles your situation with discretion. The Frey Law Firm, LLC is at 625 E. Twiggs St., #101A, in downtown Tampa. Attorney Ron Frey represents clients in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco County courts and in federal court, including the Middle District of Florida.

Is a consultation with a Tampa sex crimes attorney confidential?

Consultations are generally confidential between the attorney and a prospective client, subject to the attorney-client privilege and the rules that go with it. There can be exceptions, and Attorney Ron Frey will discuss them with you at the outset. For instance, discussing intentions to commit future crimes or harm is generally not protected by the privilege. Call or text (813) 775-2276 for a free, confidential initial consultation by phone, video or in person.

Related Resources

• Computer and Internet Crimes
• Internet Crime Charges in Tampa
• A Detective Called Me – What Should I Do?
• Arrested in an Online Sting in Tampa Bay
• Federal Target Letters in Florida
• First Appearance in Hillsborough County
• What Is an Arraignment in Florida?
• Federal Criminal Defense
• Hillsborough County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Talk With Attorney Ron Frey

Every case is different, and the right approach depends on the facts. Attorney Ron Frey offers a free, confidential initial consultation by phone, video or in person. Call or text (813) 775-2276.