Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Charged With Looting After Hurricane Helene: What Are My Options?
Looting is something that the State of Florida takes very seriously, and local law enforcement has considerable experience with this offense. Communities have seen plenty of storms and hurricanes over the years, and there are always those who feel the need to steal during the lawlessness that follows. While you may feel like you… Read More »
Facing Fraud Charges in Florida After Hurricane Helene
After Hurricane Helene, the federal government warned affected residents to be wary of various scams – noting that flooding survivors are prime targets for various con artists. What happens if you were accused of participating in one of these fraudulent schemes? How can you avoid serious federal charges for fraud in Fort Myers? These… Read More »
What Is “Nolle Prosequi” in Naples, Florida?
The term “nolle prosequi” is Latin, and its rough translation is “not wanting to prosecute.” This may be a term that defendants hear during criminal proceedings, and it could be an extremely welcome phrase. Like all “legalese,” nolle prosequi seems more complex than it actually is. An experienced Fort Myers criminal defense attorney can… Read More »
Burglary vs. Theft in Fort Myers
To the average Fort Myers resident, burglary and theft might seem like interchangeable terms. Both words seem to indicate “unlawful taking,” and you might assume that they mean the same thing. However, Florida criminal courts make a clear distinction between burglary and theft. If you have been accused of either of these crimes, you… Read More »
Accused of Gift Card Fraud in Fort Myers: What Are My Options?
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a growing number of scams today involve gift cards. Unlike cash, gift cards offer numerous benefits to alleged fraudsters in Florida. Perhaps most notably, they are incredibly difficult to trace – allowing scammers to get away with their crimes without leaving a financial trail. But what happens… Read More »
Naples Woman Claims Innocence During Hate Crime Trial
Hate crime convictions can change people’s lives forever. Not only do these charges usually carry severe penalties, but they also have the potential to ruin reputations. Often, hate crime allegations are completely unfounded – and people face these allegations due to simple misunderstandings. This is exactly what a Florida woman is arguing after being… Read More »
Is Hiring a Hitman the Same Thing as Murder in Florida?
Also known as “contract killers” or simply “assassins,” contract killers have been around for thousands of years. Many people who plan murders utilize the services of these criminals, including leaders of major governments around the world. But what happens if you get caught hiring a hitman in Florida? Could you be charged with murder… Read More »
Should I Use an Expert Witness in a Fort Myers Criminal Trial?
Expert witnesses may appear in all kinds of trials, including civil divorce cases and employment lawsuits. If you face criminal charges in Fort Myers, however, you might be wondering if you can use an expert witness in your criminal trial. The answer depends entirely on your unique circumstances, and it is impossible to determine… Read More »
What Happens if You Call the SWAT Team on Someone’s House in Fort Myers?
“Swatting” occurs when people intentionally report fake bomb threats and other concerns, causing heavily armed law enforcement officers to arrive at a target location. Often, this location is someone’s home – and it puts entire families in danger of accidental shootings. Like many States, Florida has taken a strict stance against swatting, and anyone… Read More »
Should I Accept a Plea Deal for Violent Crimes in Fort Myers?
Violent crimes in Fort Myers can lead to severe penalties, and it may be tempting to simply plead guilty. If you’re wondering whether you should accept a plea deal, you should discuss your unique situation in more detail with a Fort Myers criminal defense lawyer. The pros and cons of plea deals depend entirely… Read More »