Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How Do I Defend Against Domestic Violence Charges?
Being charged with domestic violence in Florida can change a person’s life, even if they are not convicted. If you are in this situation, it is understandable that you may be nervous or even panicked. However, Florida does recognize defenses to domestic violence, and with sufficient evidence, it can be enough to get you… Read More »
Constructive Possession Can Lead To Florida Drug Charges
In order to be convicted of drug possession in Florida, a state’s attorney must establish three criteria: that a defendant had control over the drugs, knew of their illicit nature, and knew where they were located. Most of the time, this is established if a person is found to have actual, physical possession of… Read More »
How Much Jail Time Will I Get If Convicted Of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a serious offense that can result in significant consequences. However, Florida law on the subject is confusing; the way the relevant statute is worded, it may appear as though no jail time is required upon conviction. In reality, almost everyone convicted of a crime of domestic violence will serve time behind… Read More »
Lee County Couple Charged With Child Neglect After Child Overdoses
In late October 2023, a Lee County couple was charged with child neglect and possession of cocaine after first responders found their 14-month old child unresponsive after overdosing. As of this writing, the child is in stable condition, but the couple confessed to knowing that their child had ingested “several pills described as oxycodone”… Read More »
Why Can’t My Alleged Victim Drop Domestic Violence Charges?
Domestic violence cases often get started when a well-meaning neighbor or family member calls police over an argument that may not warrant a law enforcement presence. If this has happened to you, and you have been charged with domestic violence in Florida, it is understandable to be concerned. It may occur to you to… Read More »
Drug Trafficking vs “Intent To Sell”
Because of the state’s past history with illegal drugs, crimes involving sale or trafficking are taken incredibly seriously. That said, it is important to draw a distinction between the two. Florida law differentiates between the offenses, particularly in the matter of intent – but being charged with either can be a life changing event…. Read More »
Supreme Court Hearing Case That May Affect Florida Domestic Violence Victims
In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Ass’n v Bruen which established that governing authorities have no discretion in issuing gun permits; in other words, that the 1911 Sullivan Act granting authorities partial discretion in assessing an individual’s reasons for carrying a firearm was… Read More »
Daytona Beach Man Attempts To Dump Fentanyl During Drug Bust
In early November 2023, a man living in Daytona Beach was at home when a search warrant was executed on his property – but instead of allowing law enforcement to search his home, he attempted to throw fentanyl down a sink. The man had been under investigation in recent months for allegedly selling drugs… Read More »
Tragic Homicide Raises Awareness Of Domestic Violence
Two years or so ago, in September 2021, the remains of Gabby Petito were discovered in a national park in Wyoming – but the last years of her life were lived in North Port, Florida, in Sarasota County. Petito was classified as a victim of domestic violence after her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, admitted to… Read More »
Police Mock Woman Hiding Drugs In An Unusual Place
Unfortunately, Florida has a significant problem with drug usage and drug dealing, with one offense feeding the other. However, in this day and age, a person who is caught possessing or dealing drugs not only has to contend with the legal process, but may also face mockery on social media. The Brevard County Sheriff… Read More »