Consequences of Putting a Tracking Device on Your Ex’s Car in Fort Myers

After a breakup, many take drastic measures in an attempt to keep the relationship alive. Some of these attempts may be admirable, while others are inadvisable. In fact, it is deceptively easy to commit various offenses after a breakup, and perhaps the most obvious example is stalking. What happens if you put a tracking device on your ex’s car? Could you face stalking charges in Fort Myers?

Florida Man Faces Serious Charges After Placing Tracking Device on Ex’s Vehicle 

In November of 2024, numerous sources reported that a Florida man was facing serious charges after placing a tracking device on his ex’s vehicle. After the alleged victim told the defendant that she didn’t want to see him anymore, he reportedly came into contact with her on multiple occasions. Eventually, the victim suspected that these repeated meetings were not coincidences.

On one occasion, she noticed that he was following her while driving. She became scared and flagged down a nearby police officer. After telling the officer about her experiences, the defendant apparently drove past them multiple times. Eventually, the officer asked the defendant to pull over and discovered that he did not have a valid license or registration. The officer then searched his vehicle and located some kind of GPS tracking device. This device was matched with another device found on the victim’s vehicle, and the defendant was arrested on stalking/cyberstalking charges.

GPS tracking devices are now relatively easy to obtain. However, there is a major difference between purchasing a tracking device and actually using it in a nefarious manner.

Penalties for Tracking Your Ex-Girlfriend in Florida 

Florida is currently considering tougher laws against tracking devices, particularly when used against former domestic partners. That being said, it is already against the law to track someone against their consent in the Sunshine State. In October of 2024, nonconsensual use of tracking devices became a third-degree felony. It was previously a misdemeanor.

Aside from these penalties, tracking someone against their will is also an example of stalking.

Can a Defense Attorney in Fort Myers Help With Stalking Charges? 

A domestic violence attorney in Fort Myers may be able to assist those who are facing stalking or cyberstalking charges. These are serious offenses, and a serious defense strategy is necessary. Placing a tracking device on your ex’s vehicle is a clear violation of the law in Florida, but it may not result in excessive penalties. Contact The Foley & Wilson Law Firm today to learn more about potential defense strategies.

Sources:

 b1039.com/2024/11/13/stalker-busted-in-florida-after-tracking-ex/

nbc-2.com/article/florida-law-bans-nonconsensual-tracking-devices/62477629