palm beach countyhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/tag-191-palm-beach-county.aspxblog west palm beach criminal defense lawyersupport@vestadigital.com (Andrew D. Stine, P.A. - Florida Criminal Defence Attorney)support@viestly.com (Vesta Digital)Tue, 22 May 2012 22:50:41 GMTTue, 22 May 2012 22:50:41 GMTViestly60Car Theft in West Palm is a Troubling Trendhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/501-car-theft-in-west-palm-is-a-troubling-trend.aspxExperts have been reporting a strong decline in the number of car thefts over the past decade. This decline may be a result of new and improved security technology, better response rates on the side of law enforcement, or a variety of other reasons. However, the Palm Beach Post has recently published an article attesting that fun fact, after a near decade of declining car thefts, grand theft auto seems to be a crime on the rise yet again. More often than not, cars are stolen and used to commit other crimes, or are stripped and sold for parts.

Grand Theft
Car theft is charged as grand theft as the value of the property stolen is greater than $300. However, this is usually not the only charge involved if you have been accused of stealing a vehicle. Depending on the situation, there could be residual charges such as assault, aggravated assault, robbery, and many others that are involved when grand theft of a motor vehicle is in question. If you have been accused of motor vehicle grand theft, be sure to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Vehicle Thefts Rise
According to the Palm Beach Post, From Palm Beach Gardens to Wellington to Boca Raton, there was a slight increase in the number of vehicle thefts last year. While the rise was a mere 0.9 percent, it marks the first time in nearly a decade that more vehicles were reported stolen in the county than the year before, the state statistics show.

Area law enforcement officials caution that it's too soon to determine whether the one-year rise reflects an emerging trend. They acknowledge, however, that some specific incidents have been troubling.

Vehicles are being targeted for a variety of reasons, officials say. Sometimes the thefts are crimes of opportunity. In addition, stolen vehicles are useful in the commission of other crimes - the most popular of which lately are ATM thefts, according to the Post. 

Distributed by Viestly

]]>Andrew StineMon, 21 May 2012 11:43:05 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/501-car-theft-in-west-palm-is-a-troubling-trend.aspxIs the Rate of Home Invasions and Robberies on an Incline?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/498-is-the-rate-of-home-invasions-and-robberies-on-an-incline.aspxDespite recent good news about the gradual decline in the rate of robberies and home invasions, the rate for the first quarter of this year has law enforcement on edge. Law enforcement has recently been boasting about an improved response rate to robberies, better technology and resources, and an all around better crime rate. However, it seems that things are actually getting worse, despite all of the new and improved efforts of law enforcement.

Home Invasion
A home invasion robbery is much different than a burglary. For instance, home invasion is considered the act of illegally entering (or breaking and entering) a private and occupied dwelling with violent intent for the purpose of committing a crime against the occupants such as robbery or assault. Burglary is simply illegally entering a dwelling with the intent of stealing property.

Home Invasions on the Rise
Home invasions are generally one of the most violent types of crimes. This is because they usually involve the perpetrator brandishing some type of deadly weapon. However, victims targeted at random are usually rare. The perpetrator usually has a purpose behind invading a home - and that purpose is usually knowledge of accessible cash or drugs.

According to an article in the Palm Beach Post, authorities reported 2,018 robberies in Palm Beach County in 2010, 649 fewer than in 2009. And while in 2011 there were still fewer robberies - only 1,881 - the decrease was just 137. Also, although the number of arrests for home invasions in Palm Beach County has been declining over the past three years, arrests in the first quarter of this year are ahead of the same period last year.

According to the Post, Lt. Michael Wingate, head of the robbery unit at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, said robberies are down overall because of better policing, including faster responses. And home invasions often have something to do with drugs, he said. He said many of the cases the sheriff's office works include people who have drugs - particularly prescription pills - excess cash or weapons around their house, making them susceptible to robbers.

Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of robbery, you could be looking at a serious felony charge if a deadly weapon was involved. It is imperative that you call a criminal defense lawyer immediately after your arrest.

Distributed by Viestly

]]>Andrew StineMon, 14 May 2012 16:41:31 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/498-is-the-rate-of-home-invasions-and-robberies-on-an-incline.aspxPill Mill Kingpin Ordered to Pay Victim's Family Millionshttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/494-pill-mill-kingpin-ordered-to-pay-victims-family-millions.aspxJeff George, often discussed in previous posts as a kingpin of pill mills, has finally been ordered to pay financial restitution to the family of 24-year-old Joey Bartolucci who died from overdosing on narcotics in 2009, supplied by the pill mills operated by the George brothers. Pill mills are pain clinics that often prescribed powerful narcotics like Oxycodone without discretion. These operations are under extreme scrutiny and heavy investigation because of the rising number of Oxycodone related overdose deaths. It is simply just too easy for addicts and drug dealers to get their hands on powerful prescription drugs.

Jeff George Ordered to Pay Millions
According to an article in WPTV News, Jeff George of Wellington, Fla., admitted to killing Joey Bartolucci nine months ago, by giving him access to massive quantities of powerful narcotics. Now, he has been ordered to pay the Bartolucci family $5.3 million.

The jury verdict for Bartolucci's mother, Gina, and his sister, Jennifer Moyles, came after a one-sided trial that lasted less than a day. An attorney representing Bartolucci's family detailed for jurors how George's callous actions led to the aspiring paramedic's 2009 overdose death. George was not in the courtroom and did not hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent him.

Like nearly a half-dozen others who pleaded guilty in connection with one of the biggest pill mill operations in the country, George last week turned himself in to a federal prison. Last Friday, he began serving a 15 1/2-year sentence after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court to racketeering conspiracy for operating pill mills in Palm Beach County and Broward County.

Criminal Defense
If you have ever been charged with possession or trafficking a serious narcotic like Oxycodone, you are going to have a difficult time with the court process. Not only are you facing serious felony charges (depending on the amount in question), but there are always residual charges as well. A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand everything happening in court and will represent you professionally and knowledgeably.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 04 May 2012 18:35:31 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/494-pill-mill-kingpin-ordered-to-pay-victims-family-millions.aspxBurgerFi Chain Involved in Embezzlement Lawsuithttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/492-burgerfi-chain-involved-in-embezzlement-lawsuit.aspxThe popular BurgerFi chain has been blossoming throughout South Florida. Many residents in the area have nothing but positive remarks when it comes to the chain. The restaurant also boasts its humane and natural meat, which is becoming a must-have in reputable burger restaurants. However, the chain is falling under some scrutiny as the current partners of the BurgerFi business entity are filing several lawsuits against David Mainiero after he abruptly split from the company earlier this year, without giving a reason why.

BurgerFi and Competition
According to an article in the Palm Beach Post, Mainiero’s ex-partners claim he was stealing from the restaurants to support his lifestyle, decorate his home and open competing restaurants. The estimated loss is around $1 million, according to Lee Goldberg, one of the ex-partners.

The lawsuit alleges that beginning in 2010, Mainiero, and wife, Lynn, started diverting money to themselves from vendors who served the restaurants. For instance, the lawsuit claims between December 2010 and March 2011, Southern Wine & Spirits paid $73,500 to a Mainiero entity, instead of the restaurants.

The lawsuit also claims that Mainiero, during a trip to California to scout locations for BurgerFi, decided instead to open a competing burger joint called Urbun Burger in Laguna Beach, Calif., using the trade secrets of BurgerFi. The lawsuit claims that $67,500 was paid by Southern Wine to Urbun, even though the money was supposed to be for BurgerFi. Even West Palm Beach-based Cheney Brothers provided equipment valued at $5,000 that was intended for the restaurants but instead was diverted to David’s son, David Jr., and Urbun, the lawsuit claims.

And that’s not all. Restaurant Development Group LLC, the entity that owns such eateries as The Office and Vic & Angelo’s, just filed a “cybersquatting” lawsuit in U.S. District Court, alleging the Mainieros have not surrendered the restaurants’ websites, vicandangelos.com and theofficedelray.com after turning over ownership of the two restaurants. They allege in the lawsuit that the Mainieros have “hijacked the domain names and attempted to use them as bargaining chips.”

Goldberg said he believes law enforcement is looking into the allegations of theft. But Robert Saraga, an attorney for Mainiero, said he has no knowledge of any law enforcement investigation. He also said he planned to file an answer, with counterclaims.

Money Laundering and Embezzlement
Money laundering is a felony, which may be charged in state or federal court. The penalties include jail time, a fine, and the forfeiture of any cash seized by the government. If the cash from an illegal enterprise is deposited in a bank account that contains other funds, the entire bank account could be seized.

Embezzlement is the act of dishonestly appropriating funds or assets for one's own use rather than its intended use. The charge is also a serious felony.

If you have an investigation filed against you for money laundering or embezzlement, you are in for a long legal process. A criminal defense lawyer can conduct his own investigation into your case to make your you have the best possible proactive defense in this situation.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 30 Apr 2012 12:56:20 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/492-burgerfi-chain-involved-in-embezzlement-lawsuit.aspxJudge in John Goodman Case Asked to Step Asidehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/491-judge-in-john-goodman-case-asked-to-step-aside.aspxJohn Goodman, founder of the International Polo Club Palm Beach, was found guilty of DUI Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide in March of this year. While his case seemed to be resolved, his criminal defense attorneys were continuing to attempt to change the fate of Goodman's case by accusing several of the jury members of misconduct. This case continues to complicate, while Goodman still sits in a cell, convicted of drunkenly hitting another person's vehicle, sending that car careening into a canal where the victim drowned.

Jury Called in for Questioning
According to a previous post, the possible misconduct concerns were spelled out in a 77-page document and defense attorneys say they came from a fellow juror. Goodman's attorneys say that juror said members of the jury panel, throughout the trial, disobeyed instructions from the judge and talked about the case when they were not supposed to. The potential of jury members having tainted the case by talking about it when they were supposed to could have jeopardized the outcome of the trial, and possibly even Goodman's conviction.

Judge Asked to Step Aside
Apparently the case is becoming even more complicated because according to a  WPTV News update, Goodman's defense attorneys are accusing circuit Judge Jeffrey Colbath of not tell them that Toni May, a former television host and executive director of South Florida Today on WXEL-TV, wrote him a letter in which she said she overheard a juror raise worries over possible jury misconduct at a Palm Beach Gardens restaurant the day after Goodman was convicted, before the judge agreed to interview jurors about the allegations, according to WTPV News.

The attorneys are asking for the court's "disqualification and reassignment" of the case, so that all of these potentially outcome-altering variables can be addressed.

Judge Colbath has recently denied a request for a new trial.

DUI Defense Attorney
If you choose to drink and drive, you are risking serious felony charges that will change the course of your life forever. Contact a DUI criminal defense lawyer immediately after your arrest to begin proactively putting together a strategy to represent your side of the story as quickly and effectively as possible.

Distributed by Viestly

]]>Andrew StineFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:04:12 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/491-judge-in-john-goodman-case-asked-to-step-aside.aspxJury Called in for Questioning in Goodman DUI Manslaughter Casehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/487-jury-called-in-for-questioning-in-goodman-dui-manslaughter-case.aspxThe Judge residing over the Goodman vehicular manslaughter case may be calling in the jury for questioning. The circuit judge Jeffrey Colbath held a hearing Tuesday after Goodman's attorneys filed a notice of intent to interview jurors of possible misconduct. Goodman was found guilty of DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide in March after slamming into Scott Wilson's vehicle and sending it careening into a canal where Wilson, still strapped into the driver seat, drowned.

John Goodman DUI Manslaughter
In March, John Goodman, founder of the International Polo Club Palm Beach, was found guilty of DUI Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide. Goodman crashed his Bentley into Wilson’s Hyundai and sent it into a nearby canal in Wellington, Fla., in February 2010. Wilson, a 23-year-old engineering graduate, was still strapped into the driver’s seat and drowned.

The polo tycoon claims his car “malfunctioned” and lurched forward. He denied being drunk at the time of the crash that killed Wilson, although other testimony has contradicted him. His blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit (over 0.17) THREE hours after the crash. Goodman said he “wandered into a nearby building” after the crash because he was dazed. According to his side of the story, he found a bottle of liquor there and proceeded to drink to “relieve the pain” from the crash.

Jury Called in for Questioning
According to WPTV News, the possible misconduct concerns were spelled out in a 77-page document and defense attorneys say they came from a fellow juror. Goodman's attorneys say that juror said members of the jury panel, throughout the trial, disobeyed instructions from the judge and talked about the case when they were not supposed to.

The state and defense are in agreement that the jurors should be questioned.

"At this point they are allegations and some of you (reporters) are saying you talked to the jurors and they say that it is baseless. We're dealing with human beings and I don't know why anyone would say these things. I don't know, maybe they were taken out of context, I have no idea what was going on in any eight of the jurors heads. They are all human beings and they all act on whatever they are doing," said prosecutor Sherri Collins according to WPTV News.

Judge Colbath plans to research case law and could make a ruling by the end of the week.

"I know that the case law tolerates some juror, misconduct might be too strong a word in this setting but, but uh, it will tolerate a lot of the jurors conduct, and... you have to cross a pretty bright line before verdicts get set aside and new trials are granted. And so I want to get a firmer understanding of where that line is to be drawn and then set about the task of figuring out, do these allegations fall on one side of that line or the other," said judge Colbath according to WPTV News.

If the judge decides the jurors will be questioned, they will likely be quizzed one at a time. Goodman is set to be sentenced on April 30th.

DUI Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide
DUI Manslaughter is an extremely serious charge. A person convicted of DUI Manslaughter and leaving the scene is a first degree felony with a maximum of a $10,000 fine and 30 years imprisonment. Vehicular Homicide is an additional crime with the same subset of sentencing.

Please do not choose to drink and drive. However, if you have been charged with a DUI, contact an experienced DUI criminal defense attorney in Palm Beach County immediately.

Distributed by Viestly

]]>Andrew StineWed, 18 Apr 2012 13:21:43 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/487-jury-called-in-for-questioning-in-goodman-dui-manslaughter-case.aspxFirst Arrest for Synthetic Marijuana in Floridahttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/486-first-arrest-for-synthetic-marijuana-in-florida.aspxFor the first time since the rise of the popular "alternative" to marijuana - synthetic pot, an arrest has been made of a man accused of distributing the substance. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has dramatically shifted the movement against synthetic marijuana that has been freely available at gas stations and head shops throughout Florida. Florida legislators have been itching to act against the widely available psychoactive substance and now, this arrest in Palm Beach County marks the first ever federal charge for distributing a now controlled substance.

Synthetic Marijuana in South Florida
Forms of synthetic marijuana have been widely available in gas stations and head shops throughout South Florida, with popular names like "Spice," "K2," and "Mr. Nice Guy." According to an article in WPTV News, an investigation was launched in January into a potential South Florida distributor located in the Boca Raton area. Joel Howard Lester, 52, is now sitting in Palm Beach County jail accused of distributing $300 worth of "Mr. Nice Guy," that was found to have a compound on the banned list that serves as a regulation against synthetic marijuana. 

According to the article, Lester is going to need some serious help from his criminal defense lawyer because he is a Canadian national who is in the United States illegally on an expired visa, and he has several aliases and passports, according to a magistrate's court order that Lester be held without bond.court records indicate he is trying to negotiate a plea deal.

Criminal Defense
If you are a gas station owner or a head shop owner, it is imperative that you get in contact with a criminal defense lawyer because law enforcement is cracking down on the distribution of synthetic marijuana. A criminal defense lawyer can help you prepare a solid defense strategy because the issues with synthetic marijuana are so new and law enforcement are scrambling to enforce the new laws.

Distributed by Viestly

]]>Andrew StineMon, 16 Apr 2012 16:09:22 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/486-first-arrest-for-synthetic-marijuana-in-florida.aspxIs Hoarding Considered Animal Cruelty?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/483-is-hoarding-considered-animal-cruelty.aspxFlorida animal cruelty laws state very specifically that anyone who deprives necessary sustenance or shelter or treats any animal in a cruel or inhumane manner is guilty of a first-degree misdemeanor. So how does animal hoarding fit into this description? Charging an animal hoarder with animal cruelty can be tricky because people have the right to live the way they want. The issue is proving that the hoarder's living conditions is a direct threat to the health or life of the animal(s) in question. Several cases have been surfacing recently after the show "Confessions: Animal Hoarding" on Animal Planet has gained the attention of the populous.

Florida Animal Cruelty Laws
According to Statute 828.12: A person who unnecessarily overloads, overdrives, torments, deprives of necessary sustenance or shelter, or unnecessarily mutilates, or kills any animal, or causes the same to be done, or carries in or upon any vehicle, or otherwise, any animal in a cruel or inhumane manner, is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable by time in prison, by a fine of not more than $5,000, or both.

Animal Hoarding in Palm Beach County
Several cases of animal hoarding have been surfacing lately in Palm Beach County. According to WPTV News, Animal Care and Control crews spent two weeks removing nearly 50 cats living in a home in Sherwood Lakes.

The article states:
The manicured lawn and a back yard opening onto a lake belied the stacks of garbage bags and stench of urine inside the Sherwood Lakes home. Scores of cats scaled the trash heaps in what investigators are calling the biggest recent case of animal hoarding in Palm Beach County.
The townhome owner's living conditions were realized when she was hospitalized due to medical problems and she asked authorities to look after them. Authorities found two dead cats and 45 alive. Animal Care and Control Capt. David Walesky said the home's conditions were "very, very deplorable," according to the article and that it may be the worst hoarding case every seen in Palm Beach County.

Animal Care and Control is receiving more calls about hoarding as more people learn about the problem.

Animal Cruelty Defense
While animal hoarding is not in itself a crime, it is a mental condition that makes the hoarder believe he or she is not doing anything wrong and is in total control of the situation. The only way animal hoarding can be charged as animal cruelty is if the health or life of the animals is being threatened by the neglect of the owner, or the conditions the owner chooses to have the animals live in. If you have been charged with animal cruelty, contact a criminal defense lawyer today.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 09 Apr 2012 16:32:00 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/483-is-hoarding-considered-animal-cruelty.aspxDivision in the Stand Your Ground Law Forum in Fort Lauderdalehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/482-division-in-the-stand-your-ground-law-forum-in-fort-lauderdale.aspxSenator Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale,invited members of the public to an open forum Wednesday to discuss their opinions and issues over the Stand Your Ground Law. The Stand Your Ground Law justifies a person in using deadly force when there is a reasonable belief of imminent threat. It is the main point of defense for shooter Zimmerman in the case of Trayvon Martin's death on Feb. 23 - a case rivaling the media attention of Casey Anthony. The forum was a direct response to Gov. Rick Scott's hesitance to form the task force he promised after the shooting.

Division in the Crowd
Over 100 members of the general public attended the forum in Fort Lauderdale highlighting a clear division in the public opinion over the law and whether it should be repealed or whether it should stand. The Palm Beach Post reported that there is even division within law enforcement over the law.

The Palm Beach Post reported a statement by Arthur Jacobs, general counsel for the Prosecuting Attorneys Association (an organization that represents all 20 state attorneys in Florida). The Post said that the organization recently voted unanimously that the law should be repealed. The argument is that because self-defense was already a right before the Stand Your Ground Law was passed in 2005, there really is no need for the law. He also claimed that the law is consistently being invoked as criminal defense in inappropriate circumstances, such as gang members shooting rivals and using the law as a scapegoat.

According to the article, Palm Beach County Public Defender Carey Haughwout, a member of the legal panel, stated that she believed the law should not be repealed, but that it may not apply to the shooting of Trayvon Martin. She said:

"If Mr Zimmerman was the aggressor, I hope he can be and will be prosecuted."

Stand Your Ground Defense
It is important to note that even though many members of the public and law enforcement believe it is possibly an inappropriate defense strategy in the Zimmerman-Martin Case, the law still stands and is being used as a viable defense in many cases. If you have been accused of aggravated assault, but you believed you were in immediate danger of being killed or severely harmed, there is room for using the Stand Your Ground defense. Because this is becoming a controversial issue due to the media attention in the Martin Case, you are going to need a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer to present this particular defense strategy. Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer immediately after your arrest.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 06 Apr 2012 17:15:42 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/482-division-in-the-stand-your-ground-law-forum-in-fort-lauderdale.aspxPalm Beach County Cop Arrested for Stalkinghttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/481-palm-beach-county-cop-arrested-for-stalking.aspxStalking is not a crime often reported in news headlines but in this case, it caught the attention of reporters because the accused is a Palm Beach County Sheriff's Deputy. The accusations are that the officer used his law enforcement resources to aggressively stalk his ex-girlfriend. Crimes like these are disappointing for any South Florida resident to stomach because our community expects security and a sense of honor and duty from our local law enforcement. Seeing police officers abuse their power and their resources to manipulate other people causes a lack of faith in the justice system put in place to protect our community.

PBC Police Officer Arrest
Palm Beach County Sheriff's deputy Patrick Joseph Burt, 31, was ordered to be held at the Palm Beach County Jail on a $5,000 bond and is facing stalking charges. He will be needing the strength and skills of a criminal defense lawyer to be able to keep his job after the dust settles on this case.

According to Florida Statute 784.048, Stalking is considered to be the act of willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly following, harassing, or cyberstalking, another person. It is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable by up to 1 year in jail, and a maximum of a $1,000 fine.

According to an article in WPTV News, the detective heading the investigation found that Burt used his marked patrol car to enter the woman's gated community in suburban Boca Raton in November. Also, a mechanic found a GPS device attached to the undercarriage of the woman's car on Feb. 19. Further, the woman reported that on Feb. 14, she found eight signs posted around her job that labeled her current boyfriend a "home wrecker and a cheater." There were also yellow-colored flyers posted on the building and elevator that named the woman's current boyfriend a "cheater who pursued another person's fiancé," according to WPTV News.

Burt has admitted to putting the GPS on his ex-girlfriend's car and to posting the flyers and signs. The day the signs were posted in Boca Raton, Burt was being paid to patrol Wellington.

Burt has also been accused of abusing his law enforcement resources by using the Florida Driver and Vehicle Information Database to search the names of the woman's family members and her current boyfriend.

Stalking Criminal Defense
Stalking is a crime very difficult to defend. If you have been arrested and charged with stalking, it is imperative that you contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. The nature of this crime makes the court process long and difficult. Only an experienced criminal defense lawyer will investigate your side of the story to make sure you are fairly represented in court. If convicted, you could be facing an average of 1 year in prison and a $1,000 fine in addition to court fees and other expenses.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 04 Apr 2012 15:31:44 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/481-palm-beach-county-cop-arrested-for-stalking.aspxAnother Doctor Arrested for Trafficking Oxycodonehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/476-another-doctor-arrested-for-trafficking-oxycodone.aspxSouth Florida is known as the pain-pill capital of the country for a reason. With hundreds of pain clinics flourishing throughout St. Lucie County, Broward County, and Palm Beach County, addicts and doctor-shoppers will drive from states as far as Ohio to reap the benefits of pill mills and dispensing doctors. Police who track operations say that even though many pain clinics operate legally, people can often be seen driving from clinic to clinic procuring hundreds of pills at a time. Even though Florida legislation has attempted to regulate the doctor shopping epidemic, doctors continue to supply drug addicts and dealers with pills.

St. Lucie County Oxycodone Trafficking
St. Lucie County police arrested yet another doctor Thursday night on several charges including prescribing practitioner fraud and trafficking oxycodone and hydrocodone, according to an article in WPTV News.

Dr. Greg Hayes, 50, is charged with nine counts of prescribing practitioner fraud, three counts of trafficking oxycodone four to 14 grams, one count of trafficking oxycodone 14-28 grams, four counts of trafficking oxycodone 28 grams or more and one count of trafficking hydrocodone over 28 grams. His wife, Kristen Hayes, 27, is charged with nine counts of obtaining or attempting to obtain a controlled substance by fraud, two counts of trafficking oxycodone four to 14 grams, two counts of trafficking oxycodone 14 to 28 grams, four counts of trafficking oxycodone 28 grams or more and one count of trafficking hydrocodone over 28 grams, according to WPTV News.

Bond for the couple is set at $270,000 each.

Why Pill Mills will Never Go Away
Even though the Florida legislation is trying to regulate the process of obtaining prescriptions for oxycodone and other prescription drugs, it will always be an uphill battle because there are so many legitimate patients that need these drugs to alleviate moderate to severe pain. Also, the nature of pain clinics as a proliferating business is hard to track because an individual does not have to be a licensed practitioner (one can even be a convicted felon) to open up a clinic. They can open and shut down very quickly, only to reopen in another location. Several pain clinics have legitimate and legal operations but the illegal, low rent operations are harder to track down and prosecute before they change location.

Oxycodone Trafficking Defense
As you can see with Dr. Hayes, when you are charged with trafficking oxycodone, you are likely to have several counts of the same charge as well as residual charges like fraud. It is imperative that you contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after being arrested and accused of these charges. Oxycodone is a very serious pain medication and the charges are extremely severe. A criminal defense lawyer will provide you with professional representation to make sure your side of the story is heard in court. With the high correlation of overdose deaths and pain clinics in operation, it is sure to be a long and difficult process if you have been charged with trafficking prescription pills. Make sure you have a criminal defense lawyer on your team.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 23 Mar 2012 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/476-another-doctor-arrested-for-trafficking-oxycodone.aspxSchool Teachers and Sex Crimeshttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/466-school-teachers-and-sex-crimes.aspxIt seems that almost once a week, one Florida teacher or another is headlining news reports after being arrested for some sex crime against a child. Only recently, it was a teacher in Palm Beach County, this week it is an elementary school teacher in Mango, Fla. Sex crimes against children are extremely serious and have even more serious consequences. These crimes often involve a heavy investigation and no room for mercy for the defendants. If you have been accused of committing a sex crime against a minor, seek the guidance of a criminal defense lawyer immediately.

Why Teachers Have Sex with Their Students
In an effort to understand why there are so many teachers being featured in news articles for having had sexual relationships with their students, I conducted some research to find out what drives teachers to commit sex crimes that could result in years in prison.

According to an article in Business Insider, female teachers may have sex with their male students for several reasons including love, loneliness, lust, or as a reaction to having been sexually abused as a child themselves. The article gives a few case examples for each of these intrinsic motivations but it all boils down to one thing: emotional unbalance. These teachers who are choosing to involve themselves sexually with students who are 20 or more years younger than them (and minors no less), are willing to risk being convicted of a felony to fulfill some emotional emptiness caused by an event from their past. The article also discusses why society is almost making these relationships more acceptable, regardless of the law, because of cultural shifts we are experiencing.

Sex Crimes Against Children in South Florida
Parents are growing more and more concerned with this epidemic of teachers having sex with students, and law enforcement is wondering exactly what sort of regulations to increase to prevent this from happening. Should we increase the qualifications required in order to become a teacher? Should we require psychological evaluations? Teachers have an obligation to society to guide and help shape younger generations into quality citizens, it is disheartening to see people we entrust our children to committing crimes against minors.

Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of committing a sex crime against a minor, it is imperative that you get help from a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Being convicted of this crime can result in extremely serious consequences including time in prison or even having to register as a sex offender. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately to begin planning a defense strategy for your case.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 02 Mar 2012 15:29:34 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/466-school-teachers-and-sex-crimes.aspxMortgage Fraud a Growing Problem in South Floridahttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/465-mortgage-fraud-a-growing-problem-in-south-florida.aspxMortgage fraud is becoming a growing problem in South Florida. Law enforcement is cracking down and conducting thorough investigations around home buying. With today's economic climate, people are more likely to commit mortgage fraud than ever. Unfortunately, innocent people get swept up in these fraudulent schemes without even realizing it. If you have been accused of committing mortgage fraud and you had no intention to do so, contact a criminal defense lawyer and you could even get your case dismissed.

Palm Beach County Mortgage Fraud
According to an article in the Palm Beach Post, four Palm Beach County residents and one Port Saint Lucie man were charged last week in a mortgage fraud scheme federal investigators said involved $8 million in loan proceeds and 17 homes. If they are convicted, the defendants are facing a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

According to a complaint filed in United States District Court, Southern District of Florida, between November 2006 and November 2007, two of the defendants had found 17 homes in Florida and Tennessee for which they sought financing above the actual sales price quoted by the seller. The defendants also involved family members and friends to act as straw buyers for the homes, a corrupt attorney as the closing agent, and a corrupt banker who sent falsified deposit verifications to lenders.

Mortgage Fraud
Mortgage fraud can often be a crime that involves several different crimes also committed in the scheme. Mortgage fraud cases can also result in residual charges of wire fraud and money laundering. This can be a result of:
  • Overestimating income
  • Overvaluing homes
  • Making false appraisals
  • Making false statements on a mortgage application or HUD statement
  • Engaging in mortgage and real estate schemes
Mortgage Fraud Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of committing mortgage fraud and you did not intend to commit fraud in any way, contact a criminal defense lawyer who will aggressively fight this case for you. A lawyer like Andrew D. Stine will review bank statements, mortgage applications, and other documents pertinent to your case. In addition, there will be a review of the sale and buying history of the house to determine if fraudulent practices occurred before you purchased it. If you are an innocent player in a larger mortgage fraud scheme, a strong criminal defense lawyer can have the case dismissed.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 29 Feb 2012 15:42:03 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/465-mortgage-fraud-a-growing-problem-in-south-florida.aspxFraud in Palm Beach County School Districthttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/460-fraud-in-palm-beach-county-school-district.aspxIn the state of Florida, fraud is charged as a very serious crime. A person who commits fraud can be charged with anything from a third-degree felony to a first-degree felony depending on the amount of money taken by fraudulent means. Unfortunately, fraud and theft commonly happen in all areas of life. A story about a Suncoast HIgh School band leader made the news recently after he turned himself in for fraudulently using school funds for his personal expenses.

Fraud in Palm Beach County
According to an article in WPTV News, Ernest Brown, 51, turned himself into authorities yesterday evening. The high school band leader had been indicted on charges of fraud and misconduct for allegedly using school funds for himself, his family, and his friends to travel to Europe. He has since been released on a $6,000 bond.

These trips were intended to benefit high school students. Brown was able to hide his fraudulent activity by using funds from other school accounts, according to the article. It was reported that Brown created false documents showing that certain students had met their financial obligations for these trips to Europe when in fact that had not. The grand jury stated that he used his position as a public servant to "deprive non-band students use of their own funds."

Palm Beach County School District Under Fire
This case has led several people in the Palm Beach County community, including the grand jury itself, to question the care the district takes over its financial accounts. Because this is not the first incident in which a Palm Beach County school has been under financial investigation, the grand jury stated that the district should "re-assess and improve" its oversight over financial accounts.

According to the article, school officials said the district has fully cooperated with the state attorney's office and is reviewing discipline issues at this time.

Palm Beach County Fraud Lawyer
If you have been accused of committing fraud or theft in Palm Beach County, you are going to need the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer. An experienced lawyer should have a working relationship with the prosecution and will make sure that you can resolve your case by at least paying restitution. There are ways you can help yourself through this situation and it all starts with contacting a criminal defense lawyer.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 17 Feb 2012 19:01:36 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/460-fraud-in-palm-beach-county-school-district.aspxWill the Super Bowl Lead to a Spike in Criminal Activity?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/453-will-the-super-bowl-lead-to-a-spike-in-criminal-activity.aspxExperts are saying where the demand is, that's where the supply will be. Leading news reporters and experts on criminal trends are reporting that when large nationwide events occur, a spike in criminal activity is likely to happen. Law enforcement officers are turning their eyes away from Super Bowl XLVI this weekend in order to focus on potential criminal activity, likely to happen wherever large groups of people congregate for this special event.

Super Bowl Leads to Crime in Palm Beach
Dan Corcoran, a reporter for WPTV News Channel 5, wrote in his post yesterday:
"While final preparations are being made ahead of Super Bowl XLVI, law enforcement from Florida and elsewhere is honing in on the potential for a spike in child sex trafficking. The federal government reports that Florida is among the top states where the ugly trade can originate."
Even though human sex trafficking is a serious sex crime that happens all over the country on a daily basis, there is generally a spike in this kind of activity that occurs as a result of the excitement brought on by grand events like the Super Bowl. Federal statistics say that Florida, New York, and California are the top three states for human sex trafficking, among other crimes, according to WPTV News.

South Florida is a Hub for Crime
South Florida is also known to be a major supplier for prescription drug abuse across the East Coast as well as in some states in the Midwest. Pill mills are one of the most pressing drug problems throughout South Florida. People travel all the way from Ohio, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania to doctor-shop in the pain pill capital that is Florida. There are over 300 pain clinics in Palm Beach County and Broward County alone.

Although there has been legislation passed to restrict and regulate the pills that are distributed from these clinics, it has been statistically proven that there will be a spike in drug crimes this weekend in South Florida due to Super Bowl excitement, and how cheap and easily accessible these drugs can be.

Criminal Defense
South Florida law enforcement officers are honing in on criminal activity this weekend. If you have been arrested and accused of a crime, you need to contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. These crimes are extremely serious and have serious consequences that will ensue pending conviction. If you have any questions regarding your arrest, contact Andrew D. Stine for a consultation.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 03 Feb 2012 17:39:00 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/453-will-the-super-bowl-lead-to-a-spike-in-criminal-activity.aspxMetal Theft in Palm Beach Countyhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/445-metal-theft-in-palm-beach-county.aspxFor the past several months, law enforcement has seen a rise in metal thefts all across the county. Because of the serious increase in this particular crime, officials are wanting to crack down on thieves who target homes, restaurants, and even abandoned buildings. Task forces have been created in order to battle the ever popular and lucrative crime of metal theft. There are several different kinds of crimes committed involving metal theft, not only could the thief be charged with theft, but the buyer could be charged with dealing in stolen property.

Targeting Abandoned Buildings
Thieves may think they are stealing property that is no longer wanted but the problem arises when the building owner wants to sell the building, which usually includes what's inside. Thieves will take air conditioning units for the copper, steel appliances, and basically anything metal that the thieves can find.

According to the Palm Beach Post, thieves also used the shield of darkness to steal from the abandoned Olive Garden restaurant near the Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard interchange off I-95. In mid-November, Palm Beach County sheriff's Detective Alfredo Forgione received a tip through Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County that the building was being burglarized.

On Nov. 30, Leon and Forgione arrested Osvaldo Arencibia, 43. While in custody, Arencibia told Leon he had stolen from the building "20 or 30 times." Arencibia said he went to the Olive Garden "every day for a month," Leon said in the affidavit.
"Thieves target these buildings because no one is watching," Forgione said. "At the end of the day the actual property that's in there still belongs to someone."
Palm Beach County Legal Action
Palm Beach County elected officials are working to pass laws that restrict the activity and requirements for scrap-metal yards. Prosecutors in Palm Beach County have had at least two cases against unlicensed dealers in the past year. According to the Palm Beach Post, it is a public safety concern when metal is stolen from places like highway lights. If they make buying stolen property riskier for dealers, the reasoning goes, they'll cut off the demand side of the illicit business.

Theft Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of stealing metal and dealing it to scrap-metal yards for a profit, you may be facing serious consequences. Depending on the value of the items stolen, if it is over $300 you could actually be facing grand theft charges. A criminal defense lawyer can help further explain the details of your situation. Make sure you contact a lawyer immediately after being arrested and accused of theft.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 16 Jan 2012 16:52:39 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/445-metal-theft-in-palm-beach-county.aspxAdmitting Guilt to Aggravated Assault and Armed Robbery with a Firearmhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/442-admitting-guilt-to-aggravated-assault-and-armed-robbery-with-a-firearm.aspxMany people have been following the case of the death of beloved grocery store owner Jimmy McMillan in Belle Glade. The 19-year-old accused of robbing, shooting, and killing McMillan confessed to his crimes Saturday. After appearing before the Judge briefly he is being held without bond and could possibly be facing the death penalty for aggravated assault with a firearm, armed robbery with a firearm, and first-degree murder with a firearm.

Aggravated assault charges can be extremely serious in the state of Florida, particularly if they involve a firearm. Aggravated assault involving pointing a gun at someone can result in a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years. If the gun is fired, the minimum prison sentence changes to 20 years. If the victim of the aggravated assault with a firearm dies, the defendant may be facing life in prison.

Without the help of a criminal defense lawyer, the defendant will most certainly be convicted and be forced to serve the most serious penalties. A criminal defense lawyer can help that defendant reduce the sentence if possible. A defendant can do things to help themselves such as immediately complete community service hours, enter a gun safety course, and write a letter of apology to the victim.

Belle Glade Aggravated Assault with a Firearm
A young man in Belle Glade may not be able to do much about his situation however. Corey Graham Jr. told his father that he was responsible for the "robbing, shooting and killing" of McMillan, 49, in the early hours of Jan. 2, according to a probable-cause affidavit released by the sheriff's office this afternoon. authorities sewed together surveillance footage and a steady stream of tips from area residents, prompting detectives to pursue him, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said today, according to the Palm Beach Post.

Graham was charged late Saturday with first-degree murder with a firearm, aggravated assault with a firearm and armed robbery with a firearm. He could receive the death penalty. Graham had no prior arrest record. He attended Palm Beach State College this past fall but is not enrolled as a student there this semester, Grace Truman, the school's director of college relations and marketing, said today, according to the Palm Beach Post.

Firearm Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of aggravated assault with a firearm, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. There are proactive actions you can take to avoid an extremely serious sentence if convicted, but a lawyer will do everything in his or her power to make sure your story is represented fairly and thoroughly.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 09 Jan 2012 16:50:36 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/442-admitting-guilt-to-aggravated-assault-and-armed-robbery-with-a-firearm.aspxHow to Deal with a Grand Theft Felony Chargehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/401-how-to-deal-with-a-grand-theft-felony-charge.aspxTheft in the state of Florida is charged at varying degrees depending on the amount stolen. Recently, there have been several people charged with theft around the South Florida are for stealing Air Conditioning units which usually results in a grand theft charge because of the cumulative dollar amount of items stolen.

Grand Theft in Fort Pierce

A 42-year-old Fort Pierce man is being charged with grand theft for stealing equipment from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue crews Thursday. Richard Halsey Gosman was held late Thursday at Palm Beach County Jail on $31,500 bail. His arrest was considered to be on suspicion of burglary and grand theft, according to WPTV News.

Gosman was caught because a Fire Rescue Station in Lake Worth reported a burglary of a fireman’s SUV early Thursday. The firefighter said sometime during the day, someone had smashed the front passenger window of his vehicle and stole two GPS devices, a laptop and a camera, according to WPTV News.

Fire Rescue and Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputies responded to the call of a vehicle crash a few hours later and noticed items in the crashed vehicle that matched the description the firefighters gave.

Gosman was immediately arrested.

Grand Theft Charges in Florida

Theft is charged at varying degrees. The degree of the severity of the charge is solely based upon the dollar value of the item(s) stolen and if they amount to more than $300. Grand theft is a third degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and lofty fines.

Grand Theft Criminal Defense

Being convicted of a felony grand theft charge is extremely serious and will hold you back for the rest of your life. The first person you should call after being arrested and accused of grand theft is a criminal defense lawyer. Only a criminal defense lawyer will be able to negotiate with the prosecuting attorneys to have your sentence lowered to probation or work camps rather than prison.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:57:54 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/401-how-to-deal-with-a-grand-theft-felony-charge.aspxHow Pain Clinics in South Florida have been Skirting New Lawshttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/391-how-pain-clinics-in-south-florida-have-been-skirting-new-laws.aspxA consistent headline in the news is how pain clinics are a growing problem. South Florida is considered to be the hotspot for pain clinics and by proxy, prescription drug trafficking. Doctors at pain clinics have an underhanded reputation for handing out prescriptions like they’re candy for highly addictive drugs like Oxycodone. As law enforcement continues to crack down on drug traffickers disguised as pain clinics, drug traffickers continue to find loopholes around the law.

Pain Clinic Central in South Florida

WPTV News reports that Florida’s drug czar is warning South Florida law enforcement about potential loopholes that pill mills have found. The number of pain clinics trying to establish themselves as pharmacies has surged recently causing law enforcement to start sweating.

While pain clinics do rake in a significant amount of revenue, they are a serious problem in this area. Prescription drugs like Oxycodone and Xanax are high on the list of popular drugs in the drug trafficking scene. Dr. Barbara Krantz of the Hanley Center treats prescription drug addicts. She says in the past two years, there has been a significant increase in the number of addicts, according to WPTV News.

“We’re seeing anywhere from approximately eight deaths per day,” Krantz said.

New Pain Clinic Law

There is a new law banning drugs from being dispensed directly by pain clinics, but clinics are looking for (and have already found) a loophole. The pain clinics start their own pharmacy instead, and put it inside their own pain clinics. The Sun-Sentinel reported that the state approved 800 new pharmacies in the last year.

The state is going to attempt to close this loophole by enforcing stricter regulation in the future. The state will also move to ban pain clinics from being near pharmacies.

Criminal Defense

With the spike in pharmacies, pain clinics, and prescription drug trafficking in South Florida, criminal defense lawyers are going to be busy. Law enforcement is expending a significant amount of their budget to prosecute drug traffickers that hide behind the façade of pain clinics. If you have been accused of prescription drug trafficking in affiliation with a pain clinic, you need the skills and experience of a criminal defense lawyer.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 07 Sep 2011 15:48:58 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/391-how-pain-clinics-in-south-florida-have-been-skirting-new-laws.aspxWhat is the Sentence for Crimes Against Elderly People?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/390-what-is-the-sentence-for-crimes-against-elderly-people.aspxCrimes against elderly people often go unreported because the victim’s rarely contact authorities themselves. Usually, a witness or friend recognize something odd occurring and report the discrepancies to the authorities. Crimes against elderly people usually encompass fraud, burglary, theft, or any money-related crime. One Tequesta woman, 65, was young and nimble enough to escape a serious assault on her life.

Assault on a Person 65 or Older

According to WTPV News, a 33-year-old Tequesta woman with bipolar disorder was arrested on charges of assault on a person 65 years or older and committed for an involuntary mental health exam after she tried to kill her mother with a knife Saturday morning.

According to a police report, Amy Kuryla swung a knife under her mother's chin saying, "You are going to die" and "You are always controlling my life."

Kuryla's mother, 65, was able to get the knife away from her daughter and hold her down, but Kuryla became violent again. The mother ran from the home and called police, according to the police report. Kuryla's mother told police that her daughter has bipolar disorder and has been "very unstable for a week," the report said.

In a hearing at the Palm Beach County Detention Center this morning, Palm Beach County Judge Janis Brustares Keyser set bond at $5,000 for each count of assault and ordered Kuryla to have no contact with her mother.

Criminal Defense

People 65 years or older are protected by the law. Assault is a serious crime to begin with but when a person is accused of assaulting someone over the age of 65, the consequences are even more severe. Aggravated assault upon a person over 65 is a second-degree (it can also be first-degree) misdemeanor punishable by a minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 in addition to 500 hours of community service. If you have been accused of assault upon an elderly person, you need a criminal defense lawyer’s help. A criminal defense lawyer may be able to lower your sentence if at all possible.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 05 Sep 2011 14:24:23 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/390-what-is-the-sentence-for-crimes-against-elderly-people.aspxUpdate: Pill Mill Brothers Face a Judgehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/386-update-pill-mill-brothers-face-a-judge.aspxThe pill mill brothers, Chris and Jeff George, were indicted in October of last year on federal weapons charges. The two were indicted and arrested along with several doctors working for them in their pain clinics after amassing millions from their pain clinics. The brothers were living a lavish lifestyle while the doctors they employed supplied prescription pills to drug traffickers and dealers pouring in from Kentucky, Ohio, and South Carolina.

Prescription Pill Trafficking and Weapons Charges

Now, Jeff George is facing second-degree felony murder charges in the overdose death of Joey Bartolucci, who visited one of his pain clinics in January of 2009. Chris and Jeff George finally faced the judge Wednesday morning after the prolonged federal and state crackdown on the George’s cash-only pain clinics came to a close.

Jeff George defended himself by claiming that although they provide medication, they should not be held responsible if the user of that medication chooses to abuse it. Attorney McAuliffe also charged the prescribing physician, Dr. Gerald Klein, with first-degree murder. Klein allegedly gave Bartolucci prescriptions for 150 Dilauded pills, 30 Xanax, and 30 Nortriptyline pills.

Chris George’s Fort Lauderdale defense lawyer argued that the brothers operated legitimate businesses staffed by licensed doctors, physicians who prescribed drugs within the confines of the law, according to the Palm Beach Post.

The George brothers are also being federally prosecuted under the RICO act, the law created to crack down on Mafia related crime.

Criminal Defense

If you have been charged with any two specific crimes within ten years, you could be charged and prosecuted under the RICO act. These crimes are specified under the act as robbery, murder, fraud, grand theft, etc. A criminal defense lawyer can be an ally to you through this process because only lawyers have a full grasp of the law and know what to look for while investigating your situation. Jeff George’s defense lawyer is the only person keeping Jeff’s head above water at this time by taking on the responsibility of questions from reporters as well as court procedures.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 26 Aug 2011 13:50:42 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/386-update-pill-mill-brothers-face-a-judge.aspxWhat is the Seniors vs. Crimes Project?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/384-what-is-the-seniors-vs-crimes-project.aspxAll over South Florida, seniors are banding together to protect their own. Florida now has a growing army of “Senior Sleuths” dedicated to catching people who commit crimes against the elderly. These retirees and other silver-haired volunteers do everything from spend their time on the phone while in bed to conducting undercover investigations.

Seniors vs. Crime

The Seniors vs. Crimes project is expanding in South Florida with thousands of volunteers who investigate complaints from elderly consumers, according to the Palm Beach Post. These complaints can range from a roofer taking a deposit and disappearing, to fraud, to phone companies neglected to repay customers they over-billed.

One great example of the Senior Sleuths taking down crime is when an 83-year-old man participated in an undercover operation in Tampa that eventually led to the arrest of a water-purification system salesman. The salesman was charged with grand theft. Last year, the Senior Sleuths recovered over $200,000 for Palm Beach and Broward County victims.

Recently, the effort of the Seniors vs. Crime project led to the arrest of Robert Hoffman, the owner of a hurricane shutter company in Hallandale Beach. Hoffman’s company allegedly required customers to pay up to 80% of the cost upfront but never delivered in many cases. After the Senior Sleuths alerted the attorney general’s office, Broward Sheriff’s Office arrested Hoffman on charges of fraud and unlicensed contracting.

Criminal Defense

Have you ever been charged with a crime against an elderly person? If so, you are in for a long haul with the law unless you’ve consulted a criminal defense lawyer. Crimes against the elderly are taken very seriously by the law because the elderly seem to get taken advantage of especially when it comes to money. Organizing a scheme to defraud an elderly person can land you in jail for a long time. You would also have to pay restitution and additional fines and fees. A criminal defense lawyer will ensure that you have a fair trial and that your case is represented honestly and effectively.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 22 Aug 2011 14:45:46 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/384-what-is-the-seniors-vs-crimes-project.aspxShould Doctors at Pain Clinics be Worried?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/377-should-doctors-at-pain-clinics-be-worried.aspxLaw enforcement officers in South Florida are cracking down on pain clinics. The FDLE and DEA are very concerned with the amount of prescription pain pills that are being illegally peddled through pain clinics. The doctors of several pain clinics have been arrested and charged with drug trafficking. There is usually a residual charge of fraud as well. A criminal defense lawyer can explain the whole process if you have been charged with drug trafficking.

Pill Mill in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach doctor Dr. John Christensen is under investigation after the FDLE conducted a raid on his pain clinics and home, totaling in a raid of four locations. Dr. Christensen has not been arrested or charged with any crime but due to the multi-agency investigation, his license to practice as a doctor or a chiropractor has been suspended.

According to WTPV News, Dr. Christensen's business is called the A1A Health and Wellness Clinic. The FDLE seized patient records and computer hard drives. A witness said the business was only accepting cash.

Mike Driscoll, the FDLE Resident Agent in Charge says, "It was brought to our attention that possibly other illegal activities were occurring involving the prescription of narcotics - pain medication and so forth."

According to WPTV News, Florida's Department of Health just released the details of the emergency suspension order against Dr. Christensen. According to the document, it claims that Dr. Christensen sold illegal prescription drugs between May of 2008 and June of this year, without performing any medical exams on the patients receiving the medications. It also claims Dr. Christensen committed insurance fraud.

Prescription Drug Trafficking Defense

Drug trafficking in the state of Florida is a serious offense. Doctors that prescribe pain pills without exams will be charged severely. The only person that can protect your rights and ensure you a fair trial is a criminal defense lawyer.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:58:33 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/377-should-doctors-at-pain-clinics-be-worried.aspxHow Are the New Animal Cruelty Laws Affecting You?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/376-how-are-the-new-animal-cruelty-laws-affecting-you.aspxThe new tethering laws for animals have a lot of surprised people being visited by Animal Care and Control serving warnings. The new law prohibits people from leaving pets outside tied up without supervision. Neighbors are calling in at a much higher rate to report people who tie up their animals. The only problem is, many animals are not being mistreated but the owners are still receiving visits and warnings from Animal Care and Control.

Not Animal Cruelty

A Palm Beach County dog owner and her family received a surprising visit from Animal Care and Control. A concerned citizen had called to complain that Lisa Brown and her family had tied up their dog Sassy outside.

"She's good, she's perfectly taken care of, she's spoiled, and we love her to death," Brown said.

The family says they have never left Sassy unattended outside while tied to a tether. But Animal Care arrived to educate the family, and ended up giving them a warning.

Walesky says his officers have been kept busy by similar calls since this new animal tethering law was passed. The law prohibits people from leaving pets outside tied up without supervision. If a dog is left in a contained space like a fenced yard, they must have ample water and shade to keep them healthy and comfortable.

The Brown family is adamant that Sassy has a good home, and is well cared for.

The consequence for tethering an animal unattended ranges from a warning, a fine or even criminal charges, depending on the situation. To report abuse, call Animal Care and Control at 561-233-1200.

Animal Cruelty Criminal Defense

Have you ever been charged with animal cruelty for tethering your dog? If you have been compliant with the new laws passed and have still been criminally charged, you’re going to need help from a criminal defense lawyer. Because the law is so new, many people are unaware of the changes and specifications. A criminal defense lawyer can help you devise a defense strategy.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:36:55 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/376-how-are-the-new-animal-cruelty-laws-affecting-you.aspxIs Aggravated Assault a Felony?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/366-is-aggravated-assault-a-felony.aspxA West Palm Beach woman was arrested Monday after shooting her husband multiple times with a BB gun at a friends home. She called the police herself after an argument with her husband following the shooting.

Spousal Aggravated Assault

According to the Palm Beach Post, Darlene M. Garcia, 37 was arrested by Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies for allegedly shooting her husband in the face and body with a CO2 BB gun and stealing his clothes.

She was charged with aggravated assault, burglary, and resisting an officer.

Around 7 a.m. Monday, while her husband was at a friend’s house, Garcia entered the home and opened fire on her husband, according to the post.

Her husband returned home and he and Garcia began arguing. She then called the police to their West Palm Beach home. Deputies arrived and Garcia continuously interrupted, shouting obscenities.

The BB gun was never found, but the couple’s 11-year-old son turned over a gun cartridge and confirmed that they do own a gun. Garcia was warned five times that she may be arrested for interrupting the investigation before being taken into custody by deputies.

Aggravated Assault and the Law

A person is found guilty of aggravated assault if it is proven that he or she attempted to cause serious bodily injury to another. It is considered aggravated assault if he or she attempts to knowingly cause bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon. Aggravated assault is a third-degree felony punishable by a maximum of 5 years in prison and a steep $5,000 fine.

Aggravated Assault Criminal Defense

Being charged with aggravated assault can really hinder your life. While an experienced criminal defense lawyer can have your sentence toned down, having a felony charge on your criminal record will follow you around for the rest of your life. A felony charge for aggravated assault can keep you from getting a job, renting a place to live, and just having a normal life. Speak to a criminal defense lawyer about your charges and give yourself a chance at a future. 

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 13 Jul 2011 15:07:04 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/366-is-aggravated-assault-a-felony.aspxDefense Attorney Andrew D. Stine Comments on Casey Anthony Casehttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/363-defense-attorney-andrew-d-stine-comments-on-casey-anthony-case.aspxAccording to the Palm Beach Post, some local defense attorneys expressed their opinions on the Casey Anthony murder trial on Monday, July 4.

Unsurprisingly, no verdict came after jurors in Orlando concluded their first day of deliberations Monday. Several local attorneys predict that we will not see a verdict until at least the end of the week; they believe the jurors will likely continue their debate for a couple of more days.

Local Attorney Opinions

One of our own local attorneys, Andrew D. Stine, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer said, “I don’t think they’ll agree on a number of things, and I do think there will be some infighting.”

Stine expressed that attorneys on both sides of the case presented their closing arguments well but the state’s circumstantial case was not as strong as they portrayed. Stine also pointed out there is a strong possibility that the jury may convict Anthony of the lesser charge of second-degree murder, rather than premeditated or felony murder as prosecutors are pushing for.

Both Stine and another defense attorney, Michelle Suskauer agreed that the defense made a great decision in keeping Anthony from testifying. If she testified, she may have had to answer questions about the several alleged lies she told that prosecutors exposed earlier in the trial.

Orange County Chief Circuit Judge Belvin Perry instructed jurors that they should not use the fact that Anthony stayed off the stand against her. Stine and Suskauer both say they hope the jury took those instructions to heart, but wouldn't be surprised if one of them has already wondered aloud why Anthony didn't testify.

Stine thinks defense attorney Jose Baez did as good a job as he could to attack the forensic evidence, saying that there was no evidence of chloroform poisoning found in Caylee's system.

All above information can be found in the Palm Beach Post.

More to Come in the Casey Anthony Murder Trial?

Criminal defense lawyer Andrew D. Stine will continue to watch the trial and express his opinions as the jurors continue their deliberation. We will keep you posted on any updates.

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]]>Andrew StineTue, 05 Jul 2011 18:03:09 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/363-defense-attorney-andrew-d-stine-comments-on-casey-anthony-case.aspxWhat to Do if You are Caught Carjackinghttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/362-what-to-do-if-you-are-caught-carjacking.aspxHappy 4th of July! Some people have not had such a good weekend so far. According to the Palm Beach Post, two men were carjacked and one was stuffed into the trunk late last night. Police are trying to figure out if this incident is part of the “bump and rob” trend that’s starting to become more commonplace in the West Palm Beach area lately.

Grand Theft Auto

According to the article, police are investigating an overnight carjacking that began in Palm Beach Gardens and ended in a crash near an ATM in West Palm Beach. Details are scant, but it appears that at 3:30 a.m. two men in a Hyundai Sonata in the area of Northlake Boulevard and Military Trail were approached by three men with guns, reports Palm Beach Gardens police spokeswoman Officer Ellen Lovejoy.

One of the victims was put in the car's trunk and the other along with the robbers headed for an ATM, Lovejoy said. From that ATM they headed for another, she said. For unknown reasons, the car later crashed near the Chase Bank ATM on the property of the former Palm Beach Mall at Congress Avenue and Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Lovejoy said.

The three robbers ran from the scene and the two victims were treated for minor injuries, Lovejoy said. Police are investigating the possibility that this carjacking could be related to previous "bump and robs" that have been committed in the area in recent months, Lovejoy said

Robbery Defense

If you have ever been charged with robbery, burglary, or theft (especially carjacking), you need a criminal defense lawyer who’s going to be aggressive when fighting for your legal rights. If you have been charged with robbery, burglary, or any kind of theft, you’re looking at a felony, severe fines, and possibly and extended prison sentence. Let an experienced criminal defense attorney fight to protect your legal rights.

Have a fun and safe holiday.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 04 Jul 2011 14:04:37 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/362-what-to-do-if-you-are-caught-carjacking.aspxCan a Judge Overturn a Jury Verdict?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/361-can-a-judge-overturn-a-jury-verdict.aspxHave you ever wondered if a judge can overturn a guilty verdict, or even a not guilty verdict? The results of former West Palm Beach Firefighter Capt. Rick Curtis’s trial may leave people wondering – is a jury verdict the final word?

DUI Conviction Overturned

According to the Palm Beach Post, Rick Curtis is fighting to get his job back as a firefighter for West Palm Beach now that his DUI conviction has been overturned. The conviction was overturned after Curtis alleged that the judge had an “intimate relationship” with one of Curtis’ adversarial colleagues. Curtis claims he didn’t learn of the relationship until after the trial.

City officials are refusing to let Curtis return to the department and are claiming that the conviction wasn’t the sole reason he was fired. County Court Judge Paul Damico ordered a new trial Wednesday.

Can a Judge Overrule a Jury Verdict?

In any trial, the judge’s decision and opinion has higher authority than anyone else. The fact of the matter is that a judge is an expert on the law and the jury is not. The judge can overturn a guilty verdict and find the defendant not guilty, but not the other way around.

Instead of overturning a guilty verdict, the judge can order a new trial. This is a rare instance that can happen if the judge determines that there was a procedural error or an error with the evidence that was important to the case.

Ultimately, a judge overruling a jury verdict is very rare because jury verdicts are supposed to represent the sentiment of the community.

Criminal Defense

If you are facing charges and fear the results of your trial, you need a criminal defense lawyer on your side. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will know how to file a motion to vacate the conviction if you feel that you have been wrongly convicted based on errors during the trial.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 01 Jul 2011 14:04:24 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/361-can-a-judge-overturn-a-jury-verdict.aspxHow Serious is Grand Theft of an Elderly Person?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/360-how-serious-is-grand-theft-of-an-elderly-person.aspxHave you ever wondered what type of felony it is to steal from an elderly person? Because of their age, it is a very sensitive crime and depending on the amount, can be a first, second ,or third degree felony. According to an article in the Palm Beach Post, two women employed by the state have been caught taking advantage of an elderly woman and stealing from her while she was hospitalized for dementia.

Grand Theft of an Elderly Person

The women were adult protective investigators with the Florida Department of Children and Families. They were assigned to protect 85-year-old Jane Janssen and instead stole about $20,000 from her bank accounts.

Palm Beach Police conducted an investigation and arrested the women, Mindi Marie Berry, 33, and her DCF supervisor, Greta Laverne Lambert, 41. A third woman was arrested as well, a member of an escort service hired to cash stolen checks.

An agency spokesman said Berry and Lambert were fired in November after DCF learned of the police investigation.

The women face charges of organizing a scheme to defraud, grand theft from an elderly person, credit card fraud and identity theft.

Grand Theft of an Elderly Person and the Law

An elderly person is considered anyone over the age of 65. A person is charged with grand theft of an elderly person if he or she is accused of stealing more than $1,000 from a person over 65. Anyone convicted of such a crime must pay restitution and participate in up to 500 hours of community service in addition to any other sentencing as decided by the judge. Grand theft of an elderly person is a first degree felony if the defendant was aware that the victim was older than 65 and the stolen property amounted to more than $50,000. (Between $10,000 and $50,000 is a second degree felony).

Grand Theft Criminal Defense

Taking advantage of elderly or disabled people is not a crime that is taken lightly in the eyes of the law. Unfortunately it is not all that uncommon either. If you have been charged with grand theft of an elderly person, you need someone to defend you right a way. Contact a criminal defense lawyer so you can at least have a chance at a sentence of just paying restitution and completing community service. 

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 29 Jun 2011 15:07:22 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/360-how-serious-is-grand-theft-of-an-elderly-person.aspxHow Problematic is Day Care Fraud in Palm Beach Countyhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/357-how-problematic-is-day-care-fraud-in-palm-beach-county.aspxDay care fraud is not a crime commonly talked about. It is the act of lying about your current salary in order to receive government assistance to send your child to day care. Even though it is not a crime that commonly makes headlines, it is still a problem in Palm Beach County.

Day Care Fraud

According to WPTV News, last year, 16 Palm Beach County parents were forced to pay back nearly $70,000 in stolen money.

In one recent case a mother of three admitted she lied about her salary, submitting a dozen bogus employment letters so she could rake in more than $40,000 in day care subsidy cash.

In another recent case, a mother failed to mention she worked for the government when she used the government to cash in on more than $15,000 in child care assistance.

Day care fraud is a problem in Palm Beach County with no easy solutions.

"At what point do you punish the child for the actions of the parent?" asked Warren Eldridge, Executive Director of the Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County.

Parents found guilty of stealing public day care money often get a slap on the wrist. Parents forced to pay back restitution can still apply for future government assistance.

Suspected cases of day care fraud eventually make their way to state investigators but with limited resources within the Florida Department of Financial Services, only a few ever get results.

Fraud Criminal Defense

If you have ever been accused of fraud, you already have a good idea of how difficult the court process is. It is difficult to defend yourself for stealing money because there are always reasons and special circumstances that drive you to take the actions you take. A criminal defense lawyer understands how difficult it is to defend fraudulent activities. Only a criminal defense lawyer can help you in this case. Depending on the amount of defrauded money, paying restitution could give you the chance to have your charges dropped and walk away with a slap on the wrist.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 22 Jun 2011 13:50:22 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/357-how-problematic-is-day-care-fraud-in-palm-beach-county.aspxWhy it's Dangerous to be a Pain Clinic Doctor in Palm Beach Countyhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/356-why-its-dangerous-to-be-a-pain-clinic-doctor-in-palm-beach-county.aspxThere have been three pain clinic raids in the last 10 days in Palm Beach County. According to an article in WPTV news, Palm Beach County Police have been sweeping the county and cracking down on unregistered pain clinics and digging up more information on clinics that seem to be participating in suspicious activities. If you are a doctor or an owner of a pain clinic, tread with caution as you are now in the spot light of Palm Beach County Police.

Pain Clinics Under Scrutiny

According to the article, a Boca Raton doctor is behind bars, accused of handing out pain medications. Palm Beach County Sheriff Deputies raided the Southern Care Pain Management and Wellness Center in Palm Springs Friday. This is the third raid of a suspected pain clinic in Palm Beach County in 10 days. An undercover operation put Doctor Marvin Reich in jail, for allegedly writing fake prescriptions for oxycodone and other narcotics.

Deputies loaded boxes of medical and financial files into the back of a box truck. Detectives say the clinic is not registered in Florida.

"Well he (Reich) is an eye doctor, and he's in a pain clinic. There's no medical stuff inside the facility for any type of eye exams, let's put it that way," says Lt. Bruce Hannan, with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.

The clinic's owner, 57-year-old Glen Smith Jr., of Lake Worth was also arrested. Both men are charged with running an unregistered pain clinic. If convicted the most time Dr. Reich or the owner could spend in prison is five or six years. Detectives say the investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may follow.

Prescription Drug Criminal Defense

While five or six years in prison may not seem like a hefty consequence, being charged with drug trafficking or prescription drug trafficking can rack up serious consequences. With the help of a criminal defense lawyer, you might be able to lower your fines and the amount of time you'll spend in prison if you have been charged with drug trafficking. Doctors especially need the help of a criminal defense lawyer because they run the risk of losing their licenses.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 20 Jun 2011 11:53:03 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/356-why-its-dangerous-to-be-a-pain-clinic-doctor-in-palm-beach-county.aspxHow Even Your Faith Can't Help You Keep Your Kids if You are Convicted of Child Neglecthttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/352-how-even-your-faith-cant-help-you-keep-your-kids-if-you-are-convicted-of-child-neglect.aspxAccording to an article in WPTV News, a Riviera Beach couple was arrested Wednesday night for child neglect, after allegedly telling police that they live life in God and don't need to work despite not having any money to feed their toddler.

Claire Justin, 28, and Neil Vilain, 41, are being held at the Palm Beach County Jail in lieu of $3,000 bond on charges of child neglect.

This morning, Palm Beach County Circuit Judge Ted S. Booras ordered they have no contact with their 3-year-old child, who was placed in the custody of her maternal grandmother by the state Department of Children and Families, police said.

When the officer spoke with Justin and Vilain, they said they believe that "the way most people live is evil," according to the report. They added that neither of them works, their condo is in foreclosure and that their electricity was turned off two days prior. They also said that despite not paying the bill, their water was still running. To survive, Justin steals a nutritional supplement from Walmart every day for the toddler, and chips and water for the couple, the report says.

"The two apparently believe that the 'normal' American lifestyle is evil and that they need to live with minimal items to survive," the deputy stated in the report. "Neil (Vilain) says he lives day-to-day and does not think about the future of the family. He says he leaves that in the hands of God."

Child Neglect Criminal Defense

There is no excuse for neglecting your child, whether it is because of your faith or your financial situation, you can always ask for help. If you have been charged with child neglect, you need to ask for help from a criminal defense lawyer. The law does not take too kindly to people who harm their children, especially if the harm comes from parents who just aren't paying attention. Have your criminal defense lawyer explain exactly what might happen to you throughout the process and you can team up and devise a defense strategy that might give you a chance to keep your child.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:10:21 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/352-how-even-your-faith-cant-help-you-keep-your-kids-if-you-are-convicted-of-child-neglect.aspxHow Marijuana Dealers are Getting More Creative When Sellinghttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/349-how-marijuana-dealers-are-getting-more-creative-when-selling.aspxMarijuana dealers are getting more and more creative with their methods of distribution. As the local government invests more money, time, and officers in an attempt to squash the marijuana craze in Palm Beach County, dealers are stuffing their pot into anything from cupcakes to Subway sandwich bags.

Marijuana Methods of Distribution

According to an article in WPTV News, a Fort Pierce Subway employee was arrested on Thursday morning by St. Lucie County Sheriff's investigators who said she was selling marijuana to patrons who asked for 'extra meat' on their sandwiches.

Elizabeth Hunter, 47 known as "Liz" was allegedly selling marijuana from inside a Hess gas station/Subway Fort Pierce. According to St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office on May 10th and May 26th, undercover deputies used the code words 'extra meat' when they ordered sandwiches from Hunt.

"The 'extra meat' was a baggie of marijuana that Hunt slipped into the sandwich bag," Sheriff Ken Mascara said in a written release. The arrest affidavit also states that Hunt asked the undercover deputies to, "put the $10 in the tip jar."

Hunt then placed the marijuana inside the subway sandwich bag, and is now being held in the St Lucie county jail on a $55,000 bond on two counts of sale and delivery of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a convenience store, one count of possession of marijuana with intent to sell within 1,000 feet of a convenience store and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Only recently, a drug dealer was caught using a very creative method of distribution. He was arrested selling pot cupcakes to South Miami High School students at $10 a piece.


Criminal Defense

If you are caught in possession of or trafficking marijuana, you’re in a for a long haul. Because the government is investing to much time and energy in cracking down on marijuana and drug dealers, you will undoubtedly be facing a tough trial. The only person who can help you in this situation is a criminal defense lawyer. Have a criminal defense lawyer answer any questions you may have about your situation and he or she can also help you build a strong defense strategy.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 03 Jun 2011 11:49:26 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/349-how-marijuana-dealers-are-getting-more-creative-when-selling.aspxWhy Marijuana Grow Houses are Easy to Findhttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/346-why-marijuana-grow-houses-are-easy-to-find.aspxAccording to an article in WPTV News, a marijuana grow house was busted on Wednesday after police accidentally stumbled upon it. Usually, grow houses are caught and found through informants, anonymous tipsters, or sting operations. This one however, the police sniffed their way into.

The Crime

According to the article, two uniformed officers patrolling the Pelican Pointe town home got a whiff of marijuana near the pool area. They followed their noses and saw Jesse Duncans, 26, smoking marijuana in the rear patio of a town house. Several plants were growing in pots on a table right next to him out in the open.

The officers promptly approached Duncans and identified themselves. He immediately bolted inside with a handful of marijuana in his hands. The police chased him fearing he would try to destroy the evidence. They apprehended him in a bedroom where more plants were found in a closet. There was no one else in the apartment.

Police seized 40 marijuana plants weighing in at 361 grams after a search warrant was granted, and arrested Duncans on charges of resisting police and cultivating marijuana. He is being held in Palm Beach County Jail on a $3,000 bond, according to the article.

Marijuana Grow House

According to Florida Statute 893.1351, a residence is considered a grow house if it houses more than 25 plants. The statute claims that only if there are more than 25 plants can it provide as evidence that the cannabis is intended for sale or distribution.

As for drug trafficking, the residence needs at least 300 marijuana plants. Usually if the plants amount to less than 25, a criminal defense lawyer could easily argue in your defense that the marijuana was intended for personal consumption.

Marijuana Grow House Criminal Defense

If you are caught growing marijuana, regardless of the amount, you need a criminal defense lawyer’s help immediately. Charges of growing marijuana usually result in a minimum prison sentence of at least three years in addition to steep fines and a felony criminal record. Talk to a criminal defense lawyer to figure out your defense strategy.

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]]>Andrew StineFri, 27 May 2011 15:45:13 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/346-why-marijuana-grow-houses-are-easy-to-find.aspxHow Aggravated Battery Charges Turned into First Degree Arson Chargeshttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/345-how-aggravated-battery-charges-turned-into-first-degree-arson-charges.aspxAccording to an article in WPTV News, a Palm Beach County man faces several felony charges for attempting to light his girlfriend on fire and stabbing her when the lighter didn’t work. He is facing charges of attempted first-degree murder, first-degree arson, and aggravated battery.

The Crime

Aggravated battery, or just battery, is the most common charge that results from domestic disputes that get out of control. Arson, however, is quite so common a result. According to the article, the woman who remained unnamed in the police report, claimed that she asked her boyfriend to move out a couple of days ago because he was not paying any bills.

A few days later the woman said she got up when she heard a noise while sleeping, saw her front door was open, and when she went to close it someone poured a chemical on her head. According to a probable cause affidavit, when she wiped what she suspected was gasoline from her eyes her boyfriend was trying to ignite a lighter. There were apparently sparks but the flame wouldn’t ignite.

In the police report she said the pair struggled and he eventually grabbed a knife and stabbed her. She got away, made a frantic call to 9-1-1, and drove herself to Wellington Regional Hospital.

Deputies later found a shirtless man who smelled like gas later identified as Michael P. Sutherland. When asked why he smelled like gas, according to the affidavit Sutherland said that he wanted to light his girlfriend on fire, but the lighter didn't work and he was going to a friend's house where he was going to hang himself.

Deputies immediately took Sutherland into custody.

Criminal Defense

If you have ever been charged with aggravated battery, you probably already understand how messy the trial process can be. Facing battery charges can result in an extremely serious sentence if you don’t have a criminal defense lawyer on your side to help defend you. A criminal defense lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of your case with the sole purpose of building a strong defense for your benefit.

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]]>Andrew StineWed, 25 May 2011 14:37:33 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/345-how-aggravated-battery-charges-turned-into-first-degree-arson-charges.aspxWhat is the New Hot Crime in Palm Beach County?http://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/344-what-is-the-new-hot-crime-in-palm-beach-county.aspxPalm Beach Post reported that local law enforcement is seeing an increasing amount of a new crime called the “bump and rob.” This new crime victimizes drivers usually late at night. Police are issuing warnings to Palm Beach County residents saying if you are driving on the road between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. and another car bumps you from behind, do not get out of your car.

The new crime

From Palm Beach Gardens to Delray Beach, drivers are being robbed at gunpoint. The most recent incidents happened early Thursday. Around 3 a.m. in Delray Beach, a dark-colored Jeep brand SUV bumped another car traveling north on Military Trail near Atlantic Avenue.

The victim reportedly got out of his car to check whether it was damaged. The passenger and driver of the SUV approached him with a gun. The passenger shot the victim twice, but did not rob him or steal his car. Just about 30 minutes later, West Palm Beach police responded to a shooting on Churchill Road near Olive Avenue. In this case, the victim was hit from behind by a similar-looking SUV. When he got out of his car to check for damage, he was shot and robbed.

On May 12, between midnight and 6 a.m. the sheriff's office responded to two "bump and rob" calls. The first took place in the 4400 block of Cherry Road when the victim was hit from behind and walked out of his car to check for damage and was confronted by two men wearing dark gloves and masks. One of the men took out a semiautomatic handgun, and took the man's money and wallet. He was then forced to take the men to an ATM and withdraw cash.

In another incident, the victim was stopped at Lyons Road and Hypoluxo Road. He was bumped from behind and confronted by two men after getting out to check for damage. The victim was pistol whipped, and then forced to drive to an ATM and withdraw money.

Criminal Defense

If you have ever been charged with robbery, you need a criminal defense lawyer’s help immediately. Robbery charges often vary in severity depending on the crime. In the case of the bump and rob, you will most likely be charged with weapons charges as well. Have a criminal defense lawyer help you understand your situation and maybe help you lessen your charges.

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]]>Andrew StineMon, 23 May 2011 13:51:44 GMThttp://www.andrewdstine.com/blog-78/344-what-is-the-new-hot-crime-in-palm-beach-county.aspx