Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Are More Domestic Violence Crimes Committed During Summer?
It is considered a bit of an urban legend that crime rates rise during the summer, particularly more ‘intimate’ crimes like domestic violence. This rise can be attributed to shorter tempers, more time at home, and a host of other reasons that can lead to discord – however, some researchers and law enforcement professionals… Read More »
Defining Drug Possession vs Drug Trafficking
Florida’s drug laws are some of the most stringent in the United States, and those who are charged with this type of offense will face penalties that are, on the whole, more severe than in other U.S. states. If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is crucial that you find out… Read More »
“Black Swan” Murder Trial Explores Self-Defense Against Domestic Violence
The so-called “Black Swan” murder trial involves a couple from Manatee County. In 2020, the woman shot her husband to death, alleging that she did so in self-defense and that she feared for her life after her husband’s behavior became erratic and threatening. As of this writing, the case is in the hands of… Read More »
Lantana Couple Charged In Fentanyl Death Of 10-Month Old
In 2022, a 10-month old infant died of fentanyl intoxication at a Boynton Beach hospital. The mother was arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter by negligence, but in an effort to cooperate with authorities, she pointed them to the couple who allegedly sold her the fentanyl. In late July 2024, one of the couple… Read More »
Can I Persuade My Alleged Victim To Drop Domestic Violence Charges?
If you have been charged with a crime that falls under the umbrella of domestic violence, it is crucial that you take such a charge seriously. It is understandable, particularly if this is your first run-in with the law, to be uncomfortable or even frightened at finding yourself in this kind of situation –… Read More »
Florida Still Has Mandatory Minimum Sentences For Drug Crimes
Florida’s legislature has made it clear over the last few decades that drug offenses are taken very seriously in the state, partly due to its history, and partly due to the damage that drugs have done to so many Floridians. Because of this, the sentences for those convicted of drug crimes in the state… Read More »
Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, and Domestic Violence In Florida
Most people imagine crimes of domestic violence as physical altercations, sometimes involving firearms or not. However, at least in Florida, there are several different criminal offenses that can fall under the umbrella of domestic violence. Two of them include kidnapping and false imprisonment – offenses that are not necessarily seen as violent, but can… Read More »
Am I Facing A Misdemeanor Or A Felony Drug Charge?
If you are arrested and charged with a drug offense in Florida, one of the first questions you may ask is about the nature of the charges against you. Misdemeanor convictions are seen as less severe, carrying significant but not harsh penalties, while felony convictions can result in serious, long-term consequences. There are four… Read More »
Defenses To Florida Domestic Violence
Being convicted of a crime of domestic violence can lead to a long jail term and large fines in Florida, but despite such serious consequences, far too many cases of domestic violence in the state are brought on somewhat shaky ground. It is not unheard of, for example, for law enforcement to charge a… Read More »
Actual or Constructive Drug Possession
Drug crimes in Florida are taken very seriously, including simple possession of a controlled substance. If you are charged with this offense, you risk being convicted of a felony, depending on the nature of your specific situation – but conviction is not a foregone conclusion. A state’s attorney must still prove that you unlawfully… Read More »