Florida Child Injury Lawyer Blog

In Georgia, Florida, and other states, law enforcement and correction officials utilize electronic monitoring bracelets to track the whereabouts and movements of sexual offenders and predators. When a registered sexual predator / offender removes his or her monitoring device, this is a violation of probation which will result in the issuance and execution of an arrest warrant, In Putnam County, Florida, a convicted sexual predator, Paul Robert Hickok, age 28, was arrested after days of being on the run. Mr. Hickok removed his monitoring device and threw it out a car window near Waycross, Georgia. Mr. Hickok's criminal history includes a conviction on 11 counts of lewd and lascivious assault on a child under the age of 16 years old. You can read more about this story at Sexual Predator Arrested in Putnam County, Florida.

Another criminal has been put behind bars in Florida for possession of child pornography. Clifford Anderson Duncan, age 31, was recently sentenced to five years in federal prison. Mr. Duncan was also ordered to forfeit his computer and to register as a sex offender under Florida and federal laws upon release from prison. Mr. Duncan had numerous child pornography images and videos on his computer. Some materials showed sadistic treatment of children in the images. Investigators in Martin County and Duval County helped secure this conviction through Project Safe Childhood. You can read more about this story at Man Sentenced to Five Years for Possessing Child Pornography on his Computer.

The former principal of a Central Florida (Polk County) elementary school has been found guilty of possessing child pornography. Investigators had found images of students superimposed on the picture / photograph of a nude woman in a briefcase in a locked closet in John Stelmack's office at Scott Lake Elementary School. Stelmack's attorney argued at the criminal trial that the images did not constitute child pornography and may have been placed in the briefcase / office by another person. The jury apparently did not buy the "hey these are not mine" argument and entered a verdict of guilty. Stelmack and his attorney will have a right to appeal / challenge the conviction. If the allegations are true, it is disturbing to know that a principal had these kind of materials in his office and, furthermore, in his mind. You can read more about this story at Former Florida Elementary School Principal Convicted on Child Pornography Charges.

My Space and Craiglist were two sites used by a Florida man (Christopher Tyrone Young) to befriend a 17 year old girl and then advertise her for prostitution services. News reports indicate that Young knew the age of the 17 year old. He purchased a Greyhound bus ticket for the girl and made all kinds of promises to the girl. Once she arrived in Las Vegas, Young peddled her for prostitution services on the Craigslist website. Christopher Tyrone Young is a sexual and child predator and should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. He knew what he was doing and acted with careless disregard as to the health, safety, and welfare of this teen.

You can read more about this story at Orlando Man Arrested for Prostituting Teen on Craigslist.

An Ocoee man has been arrested in Orange County, Florida for sexually abusing two teenage girls. Donald Taylor, age 34, has been accused of abusing two girls over a five year period according to a news story reported in the Orlando Sentinel.

In Florida and other states, some molestation criminal and civil cases involve a one time act. Others involve acts over a period of time. Molesting a child one time is one time too many. Molesting a child over a long period of time like 5 years is truly unconscionable and, if true, should result in a much longer prison sentence for the criminal defendant.

Victimizing a child can have long reaching and permanent psychological effects on a child. As such, prosecutors should seek the maximum prison terms for criminals of this nature. You can read more about this story at - Police - Ocoee Man Accused of Molesting Girls Over a 5 Year Period.

Governor Charlie Crist stated that 77 people have been arrested as part of a coordinated law enforcement effort to crackdown on child pornography offenders. The 10 week operation was called "Operation Orange Tree". The ages of the criminal suspects ranged from 17 years old to 83 years old. This shows that criminals who partake in child pornography can range from the very young to the very old. Some of the arrests lead to action by the Florida Department of Children and Families removing children from homes. Over twenty law enforcement agencies participated in this sweep. You can read more about these arrests at Florida Crackdowns on Child Pornography - 77 Criminal Suspects Arrested.

In Florida, there have been a number of reported incidents of female teachers have sex with underaged male students. No matter your personal views of these incidents, they are still crimes that should be prosecuted. Teachers are put in a position of trust. Teachers are in place to educate our children - not to have sex with them. Reported and publicized Florida incidents include:

*32 year old teacher (Maria Guzman Hernandez) at Our Lady of Charity School in Hialeah, Florida, who had sexual intercourse with a 15 year old student;

*34 year old Jacksonville, Florida public high school teacher who had sexual intercourse with a 14 year old student;

*32 year old St. Petersburg, Florida teacher who sexted nude photographs of herself to an 8th grade student; and

*45 year old South Daytona, Florida teacher who had sexual intercourse with a student in Daytona Beach area hotels.

Florida is getting headlines but the problem with inappropriate sexual relationships and acts between teachers and students is a problem across the nation. Teachers abuse their positions of trust and selfishly prey on their students. You can read more about these issues at Teacher Sex with Students Incidents and Studies.

In Tampa, Florida, a Imam has been charged with sexual battery on a child. A 13 year old boy accused the religious leader of the attack and molestation. Police interviewed the boy and his family at Tampa General Hospital and thereafter arrested Yasser Mohmed Shahade for the alleged crime. The Imam will be entitled to the services of a public defender or, in the alternative, can hire a private attorney to defend him in this action. Initial news reports did not contain the details or the evidence involved with this crime. It would be interesting to find out the following details:

Were there any other witnesses to the incident?

How exactly did the Imam sexually assault or attack the 13 year old boy?

Did the Imam commit any similar acts in the past?

Were there any video cameras or surveillance cameras at the mosque that would either help defend the Imam or lend support to the boy's allegations?

What forensic evidence exist as to the alleged assault?

What type of physical examination was performed at the hospital? What were the findings?

Is the mosque going to perform its own investigation as to these actions?

What is the position or explanation of the Imam as to the allegations made by the boy?

These and other issues would be important know in considering the strengths and weaknesses of each party to this matter. While the acts of one religious leader do not speak for the acts of all, the allegations involved with this story are serious and should be fully investigated. You can read more about this story at Imam From Tampa Mosque Charged with Sexual Battery on 13 Year Old Boy.

Child pornography crimes are sometimes committed by members of the same household. In Auburndale, Florida, a woman (Dani Stump) turned in her husband (Roger Stump) and her father in law (Wesley Stump) for possession of child pornography. Dani found child pornography photos and videos on the family computer. Dani contacted the Polk County Sheriff's Office who later seized the computer and arrested the men. Both men were registered sex offenders from prior criminal acts. Dani Stump was faced with a difficult decision in turning in family members. Mrs. Stump chose the safety of children and decency over any family ties in making this important decision. You can read more about this story at Polk County Florida Sheriff's Office Arrests Registered Sex Offenders with Child Pornography on Computer.

A former official with the Florida Department of Children and Families has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for child pornography. Al Zimmerman formerly worked for the agency that was charged or responsible for protecting Florida children. In fact, Mr. Zimmerman was the spokesperson for this agency. It is truly sad that a man put in this position of trust and responsibility would be accused, arrested, and convicted of child pornography charges for having and paying for nude photographs of boys. One of the boys was even under the care of the Department of Children and Families. Mr. Zimmerman pleaded guilty to these charges. Mr. Zimmerman was hired into the wrong position. His arrest and conviction truly was a public relations nightmare for the Department of Children and Families. You can read more about this story at Former Official with the Florida Department of Children and Families Sentenced to Prison Term.

Hazing and sexual assaults continue to take place in schools across the nation including in Tampa, Florida. Recently, four middle school students were accused of felony assault charges. A 13 year old boy has accused these middle school students of assaulting him with a broomstick and a hockey stick. Why middle school students would deem this to be sport or proper treatment of another person is beyond comprehension? There is no mistaking the hazing, assaulting, or abuse for anything else. These acts, if true, are criminal and should be punished through a criminal conviction and prison time even if the perpetrators were middle school students. The incident happened at Walker Middle School in Tampa, Florida. You can read more about this story at Middle School Student in Tampa, Florida Assaulted by Four Middle School Students.

In Jacksonville, Florida and other cities, churches should be a safe haven for children. A place that children can learn, grow, and pray in safety and comfort. Churches should not be the site of sexual abuse and assaults, but, unfortunately, over the years, many churches have been the site of unspoken horrors and disturbing incidents. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese recently settled a lawsuit for a confidential amount. The lawsuit was brought by a man, who is now 23 years old, and his family. The Very Rev. Nicholas T. Graff was accused of sexual assault. Graff was so infatuated with the boy that he even offered to adopt the child. Many years later, Graff was suspended from all of his church duties. The church was sued due to its alleged negligent assignment and supervision of Graff who was subject to prior abuse allgations. You can read more about this story at Greek Orthodox Church Settles Lawsuit.

In Florida and other States, parents and children should be very weary about men or women for that matter who throw parties and serve alcohol to children. Odds are, these adults are up to no good. In Chiefland, Florida, Robert Wayne Thomas was arrested on two counts of lewd and lascivious conduct on a minor. Levy County Investigators are conducting further interviews to determine if Mr. Thomas committed any other crimes. Mr. Thomas threw parties for minors, served them alcohol, and had the children play games. He would even have the children in his bed. Mr. Thomas took a particular liking to one girl who was only 13 years old. Mr. Thomas expressed a desire to marry this child. The acts of Mr. Thomas were discovered when he kept in contact with the 13 year old target of his affections. He reportedly called her and sent her text messages on a daily basis. Anyone with information about the case or who suspects their child may have also been a victim is asked to call the Levy County (Florida) Sheriff's Office at 352-486-5111. You can read more about this story at Chiefland Man Arrested for Sex Crimes Against Children.

St. Johns County Sheriff's Office arrested and booked Phillip Sprengeler, age 24. He was charged with lewd and lascivious battery on a victim under the age of 16. The father of the minor came home to find Mr. Sprengeler in bed with the man's daughter. According to the Special Victims Office, Mr. Sprengeler later admitted the allegations / accusations and then arrested. The victim was transported to the Child Protection Team in Jacksonville, Florida for a forensic examination and an interview. The father was helping out Mr. Sprengeler by giving him a place to stay. Unfortunately, Mr. Sprengeler took advantage of this helping hand by molesting the teenage daughter. Mr. Sprengeler, while entitled to a legal defense on this matter, will face an uphill battle to avoid prison time on this type of crime.

You can read more about this story at St. Johns Man Arrested After Being Found in Bed with a Teenage Girl.

A middle school teacher with the Duval County School System has been accused of having sex with a 14 year old student. Jennifer Marie Collier taught science at the James Weldon Middle School. After a recent school field trip, Ms. Collier agreed to take one of the students home. Instead of taking the student directly home, the teacher allegedly took the student to a Wal Mart shopping center parking lot for sex. The student later told police that he had several sexual encounters with the teacher and showed investigators e mails as proof of the relationship. When approached by police on this matter, the teacher only confirmed that she knew the student. The teacher was arrested and denied bond. She faces charges that include felonies.

You can read more about this story at Middle School Teacher Arrested for Allegations of Sex with a Student.

The Child Protection Team (CPT) and the Florida Department of Children and Families investigate abuse cases in Jacksonville (Duval County), Florida and the surrounding North Florida area. Randall Alexander, a pediatrician in Jacksonville, Florida and the statewide director of the Child Protection Team, states that unemployment causes more adults to be at home which in turn increases the chances of abuse. Of course, this is a broad simplistic statement and theory that would be difficult to prove. Statistics are statistics though. The number of cases investigated by CPT increased 30 % from 2007 to 2008. CPT is mandated by Florida law to evaluate children who has suffered a head or neck injury, burns / fractures, and unexplained or suspicious bruises to children under the age of 5. CPT also is involved with matters involving sexual abuse, malnutrition / dehydration, medical neglect, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) found in prepubescent children.

The economy can be blamed for many of the woes in our State and nation for that matter. Yes, financial stresses and job loss can lead to violence to children and neglect of children. However, it should be noted that wealthy and affluent parents and caregivers also abuse and neglect children.

You can read more about the statistics and incidents of child abuse and neglect in the Florida Times Union newspaper article - Florida Child Deaths Rise in Poor Economy.

You certainly cannot judge a book by its cover. Those who promote, sell, distribute, buy, or even look at child pornography come from all walks of life. Even retired businessmen partake in these type of crimes. In Kissimmee, Osceola County, Florida, a retired businessmen (Robert Zuelsdorf) was sentenced to two years in prison and was judged guilty of 205 counts of possession of child pornography. Mr. Zuelsdorf must also serve a 5 year term of probation with a monitoring device. The illegal activities of Mr. Zuelsdorf came to light when he brought a computer to a business for service. The computer technician contacted the police who found stories and photographs of girls ages 1 to 12 years old on his computer.

You can read more about this story at Central Florida Retired Businessman Sentenced for Child Pornography.

Florida teens often times believe that crimes can be committed without being caught or punished. Some teens in the Florida Keys recently found out the hard way that if you do the crime - you will do the time. Monroe County (Florida) Sheriff's Office (Florida Keys) charged 10 teens with making child pornography. The 10 teens ranged in age from 13 through 19. They were charged with a second degree felony - sexual performance by a child. Some of the acts were recorded on videotape. First off, teens should obey the law. Second, putting illegal acts or improper acts on video will get a person caught one day. In some cases, videotapes are the most powerful evidence in the case.

You can read more about this case at Florida Teens Charged with Crime for Making Pornography Video.

A Jacksonville (Duval County), Florida school employee has been arrested for possession of child pornography. Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum and the Duval County School Board reported that John Watson, age 61, was arrested as part of an investigation called "Operation Fairplay". Watson was a ROTC Instructor at Ribbault High School in Jacksonville, Florida. The investigation was conducted through a coordinated effort by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Florida Attorney General's Cybercrime Unit. Watson's computer was seized as part of the arrest and investigation. It was reported that Watson had photographs / images of 12 to 14 year old girls on his computer.

You can read more about this story at Jacksonville Florida ROTC Instructor Arrested for Child Pornography.

Reverend Darrell Gilyard was employed by the Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church. This church is being sued by a woman who said that Reverend Gilyard used his position of trust to have sex with her. Safeco Insurance provided a liability insurance policy for the church for negligent acts of the church administration and its employees. A lawsuit was filed for negligent hiring and supervision of Reverend Gilyard by church officials. Safeco is attempting to limit the amount it will be responsible to pay under the policy. Safeco is claiming that the church failed to disclose prior issues and misconduct of Revered Gilyard when the church completed its insurance application and disclosure.

You can read more about this story at Liability Insurance Company Claims that Insurance Coverage Is Limited for Lack of Disclosure of Jacksonville, Florida Pastor's Prior Claims and Sexual Misconduct.

Technology and pranks can lead to serious criminal charges that can follow a person for many years or even a life time. Phillip Albert learned this lesson well when he was 18 years old. Phillip got in an argument with a former girlfriend who supposedly taunted Phillip. As revenge, Phillip sent an e mail with nude photographs of the 16 year old former girlfriend to 70 people including the girl's parents, grandparents, and teachers. Because of these crimes, Phillip had to register as a sex offender and is serving a 5 year term of probation. The sex offender label will apply to Phillip until at least the age of of 43. As such, Phillip will be tagged as a sex offender for the next 20 years or so. The ramifications of this label and these crimes are quite widespread for Phillip. He will be prevented from getting certain jobs especially those involving the supervision or teaching of children in many institutions. It probably will affect his personal life as well. He has been given a label that he will have to deal with and explain to others well into the future.

A lesson or two can be learned from the Phillip Albert incident:

1. Avoid getting any of nude or compromising photos taken by boyfriends, girlfriends or anyone else. Someone you love and trust today can easy turn into someone you hate and distrust in the future.

2. If you cannot get along with a former girlfriend or boyfriend, try to avoid them.

3. Don't use the Internet or anything else for revenge. This especially rings true when the revenge is a crime and involves pornography of any nature.

4. Stupid acts when you are young can affect you when you are older. Don't do them. If you think or suspect that an act if wrong, just don't do it.

You can read more about the story involving Phillip Albert and other young adults who have gotten in trouble for sexting or sending out inappropriate e mails at> Sexting Teen Faces Child Porn Charges.

In Jacksonville, Florida, a federal criminal trial began recently against a man accused of bringing teen girls across State lines (Virginia to Florida) for acts of prostitution.

Marvin Leigh Madkins, age 29, is accused of transporting the teens to Jacksonville, Florida hotels for purposes of prostituting the teens to men who answered ads on the Internet. Mr. Madkins actually used the popular web site Craigs List to commit these crimes. During the time that Madkins was exploiting the teens, their parents in Virginia were searching for their children and begging for clues as to the whereabouts of the children.

Apparently, Madkins lured the teens to take a trip to Florida with him for a supposed drug deal and fancy vacation. Madkins concocted this business deal with only one thought in mind - his best interests and the exploitation and prostitution of these young girls.

While this is a very troubling story, it is yet another reason why parents should take every opportunity that they can to educate their children and warn their children about people like Madkins who are only out for themselves no matter who is harmed in the process.

You can read more about this story at Teens to Testify Against Suspected Pimp in Jacksonville, Florida.

The Internet has become an integral part of our lives. I grew up in an era where computers were emerging as a tool and toy but it clearly was not so pervasive as it is now. Children have access to computer as home, school, and elsewhere. As parents and caregivers, it is important to know what our children are doing online. The computer and Internet have become new playgrounds for not only children but also for child predators and sex offenders. Often times, children become victims or pawns in a dangerous game controlled by child predators and sex offenders. In light of the dangers out there, parents should take a proactive role in knowing what their children are doing online and keep close tabs on their children. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has a very useful guide posted to its website called A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety. Parents should read this guide and other information out there to better educate themselves on Internet safety and their children. Knowledge and action on the part of parents can go a long way to protecting children from the dangers of the Internet.

Irfan Nawaz, M.D. is trading his white doctor coat for prison stripes. Nawaz was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his cyber crimes and actions in attempting to have sex with a minor. The investigation was completed by the Polk County Sheriff''s Office, the Osceola Sheriff's Office, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, and the State of Florida Attorney General Cyber Crime Unit. Nawaz had chats on line with "girls" he thought were 14 and 15 years old. Undercover investigators with the Attorney General's Cyber Crime Unit received sexually explicit messages from Nawaz who arranged for a meeting with one of the "girls". Nawaz initiated the chats with the undercover offices and made it very clear what he wanted from the children. Nawaz is now going to have up to 20 years in prison to think about his actions. When he is released, Nawaz must register as a sex offender. This story shows that child predators range from the rich to the poor, from the educated to the not so educated, and from all walks of life. You can read more about this story at Doctor Gets 20 Year Prison Sentence for Traveling to Meet a Minor for Sex.

An 11 year old girl was abducted by two men and raped in Orange County, Orlando, Florida. The girl stepped off a City Lynx bus on her way to school and then was abducted by force by the two men. The incident happened early in the morning (6:40 a.m.) and Orange County Sheriff's Office detectives are conducting an investigation to locate the rapists. The men threatened the 11 year old with a knife as she walked along Lancaster and forced her into a vehicle. The men then covered her face so she could not see where she was being taken. After raping this innocent child, the men took her back to the location where she was abducted.

Detectives are working off of limited information at this time. There is a sketch that has been created by the police which is posted online. To read more about this story, go to the Orlando Sentinel - 11 Year Old Raped in Orlando, Florida - Investigation Continues. Hopefully, information will be obtained that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the rapists and some kind of justice for the rape victim and her family.

Child predators are online and in our neighborhoods. It is often times hard to identify these child predators and sexual offenders. Many get away with their deviant acts for years. Fortunately, the law and time catches up with some of these offenders who then must serve prison time and register as sex offender / child predators. In Macomb County, Michigan, Stephen Ray Keller put a hidden camera in his neighbor's house so he could watch a 10 year old girl in the bathroom. You can read more about this story which does end with Keller's arrest in this month's newsletter at Parents: Beware of Creepy Neighbors and Others.

It is hard to keep every single person out of your house to completely prevent incidents like this; however, it is important to observe and be alert to anyone entering your home who you do not know very well. Mr. Keller is not only heading to prison but he will also get prominent placement on the sex offender / sex predator list. Keep creeps and hidden cameras out of your house to the best of your ability.

Lee County, Florida is taking efforts to make sure that residents are aware of sexual offenders and sexual predators in the neighborhood. Pre-recorded telephone calls will be placed to residents when a sex offender / sex predator moves within 1/4 mile of their home. Lee County has over 500 registered sex offenders and 36 registered sex predators. The purpose of this program is to make sure that residents know about the location of sexual offenders and sexual predators and to take any necessary precautions in light of this information. It is important for parents to keep in mind that there are thousands of sexual offenders and sexual predators out there who have never been caught or who have never been convicted of their crimes. As such, parents should keep close watch and supervision of their children while in the neighborhood and beyond.

You can read more about this story at Florida County to Call Residents When Sex Offenders Moves Into the Neighborhood.

A father in Greenfield, California was recently charged with human trafficking for the sale of his 14 year old daughter for $16,000, 10 cases of beer, and several cases of meat. He lost a daughter but bought himself a party. This truly is no way to parent a 14 year old child or any child for that matter. Read this month's newsletter to find out more details of this bizarre and most unfortunate story at Parenting 101 - Do Not Sell Your Children for Beer, Money, and Meat - A True Story in California.

Children are priceless and should not be treated like the sale of a dog or piece of furniture. Clearly, Florida and all 50 States for that matter make the sale of a child for marriage, sex, or otherwise illegal.

Special needs students in public schools have every right to be educated and supervised based on these special needs. Close and consistent supervision are key ingredients to the safety and welfare of these students. A tragic sexual assault took place at the Kanapaha Middle School in Gainesville, Florida. While a teacher stepped out of the classroom leaving no other teachers or school staff in place for supervision, a 14 year old special needs child was raped. In fact, one boy raped the girl while another held her down. These criminal acts took place while in the Alachua County School System during the school day during day light hours. Certainly, this reprehensible act of violence and abuse of the 14 year old girl would never have happened with a teacher or other adult the classroom. The Alachua County School District is liable for the actions and inactions of its teachers. While the teacher did not want this event to happen, the teacher negligently created an unsupervised environment that the incident did happen. Under Florida Statutes, the Alachua County School Board can be placed on formal notice for negligence and related damages and personal injuries. Then after the expiration of the formal notice period, the Alachua County School Board can be sued.

It is unfortunate that the school, school board, and teacher learned a lesson out of this tragedy. That lesson is that 10 minutes of missing or neglectful supervision can leave to a traumatic event that a 14 year old girl will need to live with for the rest of her life.

You can read more about this story at Alachua County (Gainesville) Florida Special Needs Child Raped in Classroom by Another Student.

In Jacksonville, Florida and other cities throughout the United States, child pornography is an ongoing problem. It is most unfortunate that some people who promote or possess such pornography of children are those in positions of trust like the clergy, teachers, coaches, day care workers, and, yes, even the police. A former Atlantic Beach (Jacksonville) Florida police officer (Christopher Crews) was sentenced to 13 months in prison after pleading guilty to criminal charges of having child pornography on his computer. After his arrest in 2007, Officer Crews was fired by the Atlantic Beach Police Department. A psychologist assessment during the proceedings concluded that Officer Crews was a pedofile.

You can read more about this story at Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty of Child Pornography on his Computer.

The Flagler County Sheriff's Office recently arrested Tina Marie Smith, age 43, of Palm Coast for child pornography and having sex with a minor. Her husband, Alton Everett Smith, Jr., is being sought for the same charges. Investigators found computer disks showing minor boys and girls (some believed to be as young as 8 years old) engaged in various sexual acts. Some of the photographs located may even have Tina Marie Smith and / or Alton Everett Smith, Jr. in the photographs. The couple face 37 charges of child pornography. Anyone with information on the location of Alton Everett Smith, Jr. or this case should contact the Flagler County Sheriff's Office or other authorities. It is reported that Mr. Smith may be travelling on the Intracoastal Waterway in a blue and white sailboat. Be on the look out for hull numbers FL1581MJ.

You can read more about this story at Flagler Couple Part of Child Pornography and Sex Acts in Flagler County (Palm Coast), Florida.

A former youth pastor / minister was recently indicted on child pornography charges in Central Florida. The Orlando Sentinel newspaper reported that Joel Price was arrested last week. Price was a minister / pastor with New Tribes Mission Church based in Sanford, Florida. Investigators conducted an eight month investigation which revealed more than 6000 pictures and over 200 video clips of child pornography on Price's computer. While every criminal defendants is innocent until proven guilty and has a right to a defense, there is quite a bit of incriminating evidence on Pastor Price's computer. Unless someone planted the files or had full access to his computer, Pastor Price will have a difficult time explaining the child pornography on his computer. The Pastor Price story is just another incident of religious leaders who preached one thing yet practiced quite another thing.

You can read more about this story at Child Pornography Indictment of Pastor Joel Price in Central Florida.

The central Florida city of Deltona recently passed a unanimous ordinance to ban sex offenders from all city / municipal parks. Sex offenders must stay away from any park owned, operated, maintained, or controlled by the city. This ordinance goes hand in hand with similar local, city, county, and State laws that forbid sex offenders from going within a certain distance of schools and other areas where children tend to congregate or go. A similar measure was passed in Woodfin, North Carolina. This measure / ordinance was challenged and brought before the North Carolina Supreme Court which upheld the measure / ordinance. Of course, the laws in North Carolina differ from those in the State of Florida. As such, it is uncertain which way the Supreme Court of Florida would rule on such a matter. I do believe that Deltona's ordinance serves a very important public interest or concern - the safety of our children.

You can read about this story at Ban on Sex Offenders at City Park in Deltona Florida.

A 7 year old Bradenton girl wrote in her diary that she was raped several times by a 50 year old - Michael Wayne Kelly. The girl also wrote that Mr. Kelly showed her pornographic movies. According to news reports citing the Manatee County Sheriff's Office as the source, Mr. Kelly admitted to the rapes and claimed that the child initiated the encounters. Assuredly, Mr. Kelly's attorney, whether it is a private criminal attorney or public defender, will advise him that this argument will not serve as a defense in any manner of the felony rapes that he committed. Unless there is some defense arguments that can suppress the admission and somehow repute the claims of the child as contained in the diary, it appears that Mr. Kelly will be residing in the Florida State Prison System for an extended stay of many years. Of course, a person is innocent until proven guilty in Florida and other States; nevertheless, the initial facts as reported in the news do not look very good for Mr. Kelly. The community and society will be a little safer with Mr Kelly behind bars away from vulnerable children. You can read more about this story at Bradenton Man Arrested for Raping 7 Year Old.

Teenagers often lack good judgment. What seems like a joke or innocent fun for the teenager can actually result in serious criminal charges and trouble for the teenager. In Ohio, a 15 year old high school student from Licking Valley High School is facing felony charges for taking nude photographs of herself and sending them to her classmates. Many law enforcement agencies have a zero tolerance for child pornography even if the pornography is sent out by the child. If convicted, the teen could be faced with a lifetime of having to register as a sex offender wherever the teen lives. The teen appeared in court with a criminal defense lawyer / attorney and denied the charges. Apparently, this kind of conduct of posting nude photographs online is a growing problem for junior high and high school students. You can read more about this story and the problem of internet teen nudity posted by students and others at Licking Valley (Ohio) High School Student Facing Felony Charges for Posting Nude Photographs of Herself Online.

Dateline NBC has run a series of shows called "To Catch a Predator". Police officers would chat with unsuspecting men. Police officers would pose as a 13 year old boy or 13 year old boy. Casual chat would turn to serious and perverted discussions of sex. Then, a meeting would be arranged to meet the child for sex. While NBC staged these scenarios, children are harmed everyday by relatives, friends, acquaintances, teaches, religious leaders, coaches, and other preying adults. NBC and the police would be set up at the safe house with hidden cameras and "catch" these predators. It is important to monitor the computer use of children. Predators are not only on the streets but online. You can view some of the predators caught in the investigation on You Tube and other sites on the Internet.

Halloween is a day and night filled with joyful children tricker or treating through neighborhoods. It also brings with it some real dangers. On such danger is the possible contact of sex offenders with children. The State of Florida Probation Officers know the dangers and propensities of sex offenders very well. As such, probation officers have issued restrictions to sex offenders when dealing with children on Halloween. The restrictions also apply to the sex offender's roommates and family members. These restrictions include the following:

*Do not give out candy or anything else to children;

*Close blinds and turn off porch lights;

*Refrain from decorated the outside of the house to attract children during Halloween;

*Do not answer the door to any trick or treaters;

*Do not dress up in a costume, masks, or any other type of disguise; and

*Do not go to any Halloween parties where children will be around.

Probation officers will be monitoring sex offenders and will be conducting surpise visits and drive bys to make sure that the sex offenders are complying with the mandates of the above restrictions.

You read more about the details of the restrictions on Sex Offenders at Department of Corrections Stress the Importance of Sex Offender Restrictions During Halloween.

The State of Rhode Island is taking the lead in educating public school students (middle and high school) about the dangers of domestic violence and dating violence. A new law called the Lindsay Ann Burke Act requires that all public middle and high schools teach the students about dating violence in health related classes. Lindsay Ann Burke was the most unfortunate and tragic victim of an ex boyfriend who decided to slash Lindsay's throat and kill her rather than face a life without Lindsay as his girlfriend. The ex boyfriend will have a lifetime to think about his actions as he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

I believe that other States including Florida should follow the lead of Rhode Island in educating students about the dangerous and real life problems of dating violence and domestic violence. You can read more about the program being instituted in Rhode Island as well as the Lindsay Burke story at Rhode Island Schools Required to Teach about Dating Violence.

Two central Florida teachers were recently arrested for having sex with students. Cynthia Horvath, age 45, was a teacher at the Warner Christian Academy. She taught English and was a Cheer Coach. According to the investigation, Ms. Horvath had sex on a number of occasions with a 17 year old student. It appears that the sexual activities took place in Port Orange, Florida and South Daytona, Florida. Ms. Horvath was charged with illegal sexual activity with a minor. Really, what was this woman thinking? She has a college degree and was in her 40s. You would think that a woman of this age, education, and life experience would know better than to have sex with a 17 year old student from her school. Teachers Arrested in Separate Sex Scandals in Central Florida.

The Warner Christian Academy has been around for 38 years. It shows that even a well established school is not immune from such scandals. It appears that background checks were done prior to Ms. Horvath's employment.

A Lake County, Florida (Eustis High School) English teacher was arrested recently as well. Laura Pace, age 38, was charged with 5 counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Two teens have come forward and reported that sexual encounters with Ms. Pace.

Yes, criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. I suspect that there is a substantial amount of evidence against each teacher. While the testimony of the victim is vital evidence, other important evidence may be text messages, e mails, letters, hotel receipts, dinner receipts, photographs, and videotapes from public or even private places showing contact and a relationship with the minor.

Law enforcement officers are treating good looking female teachers who have sex with students that same way as middle age balding male teacher who has sex with a young female student. That is called equal rights and treatment under the law. If these female teachers had sex with the students, it showed poor judgment and exhibited definite child abuse that is and should be punishable under the law. A teacher, with a college education, training, and knowledge of the laws and policies for the schools, should know better.

As parents, we can inspect the Day Care and Child Care facility to make sure that it is a clean and safe learning and child care environment for our children. Typically, a parent does not perform a background check of the employees in contact or supervision of our children. This is the responsibility of the Day Care or Child Care Facility. Pursuant to Florida Statutes Chapter 402 and Chapter 435, the Day Care and Child Care personnel need to pass a background check. The facility has a duty to submit a form designated by the Department of Children and Families in order to complete the employment background screening. If you have concerns about an employee at a Day Care and Child Care Facility, you can contact the Day Care Facility to insure that the background check has been completed and is in the file, contact the Department of Children and Families, and / or contact a Florida lawyer / attorney and / or private investigator in order to obtain independent information regarding the employee.

Computers and technology have made our world a better place in most instances. Unfortunately, many children and adults have misused computers and technology which in turn have harmed other children. As parents and caregivers, we need to be diligent to teach our children the proper use of computers, internet, e mail, and online services and programs. Proper education can help protect your children from Cyber bullying, child predators and sex offenders, pornography, unapproved purchases, and many other issues that have come into our homes via the portal of the internet. Children love My Space, Facebook and other online social networks. Unfortunately, these online communities have their own share of problems as well. I found a very good web site that contains many valuable articles and posts called www.safetyclicks.com. With more and more children accessing the Internet at home, school, and friend's houses, it makes sense to read up and educate yourself on how to educate your children. While chatting to someone online may appear to be harmless, this kind of attitude has led in some instances to horrible consequences. Be smart. Be safe.

As a Florida Child Injury Attorney / Lawyer, it is my responsibility to represent injured children who have been harmed as a result of the negligent or intentional actions of others. I feel that it is also my responsibility to share my knowledge and experience with others so as to prevent injuries to children. Education, knowledge, and adult supervision can go a long way to protecting our children online, in our homes, and in the community.

A Georgia teen (14 year old) was recently arrested for having sex with a 3 year old. It would be more accurate to state that the 14 year old molested the 3 year old. The teen was arrested for sexual battery according to Jacksonville Beach Police Department. Two other children in the family also told officials that they were molested as well.

It is uncertain what kind of supervision was in place when the 14 year old was in the family's home. The teen was arrested and then released under his parents' custody.

Parents should diligently watch their children. The parents of the molested 3 year old probably had no idea about the tendencies or horrid acts of the 14 year old. Further investigation by the Jacksonville Beach Police Department will review additional information.

I recently read about a company / service called Instant Amber. It is a company based in Nashville, Tennessee that gathers together vital information and photographs of a child enrolled in the system. If that child goes missing, law enforcement officials can quickly assess and disseminate the information when conducting a search for a missing child. Updated information can be posted through the Instant Amber site / account. The cost for the service is $29.95 per year.

The Florida Amber Plan is operated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) in conjunction with the Department of Community Affairs and the Florida Association of Broadcasters, Inc.. The purpose of the Plan is to broadcast critical information of a missing / abducted child who may be in danger in a timely matter to the general public by radio and television.

Most people probably do not plan for the day when a child goes missing. If you are faced with a missing child situation, it would certainly be helpful to have a service like Instant Amber in place. In the alternative, when faced with a missing child situation, get photographs and other vital information to the police as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when trying to locate a missing child.

There are many tragic stories of missing children reported on the news. There are also success stories. You can read about these success stories at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Web site at FDLE Amber Plan - Success Stories.

A 38 year old man (Franco Costanzo Checchi) was arrested for exposing himself in front of 4 children at the Adventure Landing Water Park in Jacksonville, Florida. Jacksonville Beach Police Department officials reported that Mr. Checchi exposed himself to the children in the locker room. The matter will be further investigation and prosecuted by the local State Attorney's office. You can read more about this story at Police - Man Exposes Himself at a Water Park.

When visiting any water park or rest room for that matter, parents should be watchful for others who may be child predators. It is difficult as a parent to protect a child in public places. Nevertheless, every effort should be made to supervise the child. It is most unfortunate the Mr. Checchi preyed on these children at Adventure Landing. If you have a question about a child that has been injured injured as a result of negligence or the misconduct of another person, it is helpful to have the advice, consultation, and representation of a Florida Child Injury Lawyer.

Three former employees and possibly others are under investigation for alleged sexual relations with girls who were clients / patients at the Stewart-Marchman Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. This investigation was reported in the Florida Times Union at Center Employees Suspected of Sexual Misconduct. The former employees worked in a facility that supervised these troubled teens. These are serious allegations that need to be investigated and prosecuted if the State Attorney believes that credible evidence supports the allegations.
According to its Web Site, the Stewart-Marchman Center "exists to improve the quality of life of individuals and families affected by substance abuse, addictions, and delinquency by supplying superior prevention, intervention, and treatment services. Stewart-Marchman Center offers these services to all persons, regardless of age, race, financial status, or other criteria at its facilities in various locations in Northeast Florida." Obviously, the conduct alleged against the three former employees are not in this mission statement in any manner.

Day care centers, schools, after school programs, sport programs, hospitals, and treatment and counseling facilities have a duty to supervise children. Providing a safe and secure environment is paramount to the well being of the child. Sexual conduct and relations with adult employees should not be part of the regimen for any child care program and facility. If a child is injured or harmed at a day care center, after school program, sport program, hospital, or treatment and counseling facility - seek the advice of a Florida child injury lawyer / attorney for advice, guidance, and representation regarding the rights of the injured child.

The bond of a convicted sex offender was recently revoked by a Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) Circuit Court Judge. Aaron Mohanlal, a former Florida teacher, had been out of jail / prison for one year while avoiding a 43-year prison sentence. Mohanlal was free pending an appeal of the conviction. Monhanlal was previously convicted of 13 counts including child abuse, molestation, and lewd battery. Monhanlal forced a student to have sex with him in a closet at school and at Mohanlal's home. Mohanlal had secured the bond with some property owned by his family. As it turned out, the property was heavily mortgaged and not workth very much money.

Teachers, counselors, day care workers, medical provides, pastors, church workers, and volunteers are charged with the responsibility of watching, supervising, and protecting our children NOT raping, molesting, and abusing them. Mohanlal should not be free at this time but should begin a long prison sentence. Due to Mohanlal's actions, he is at risk for harm by other prisoners in the prison system. Mohanlal should get no pity - he should only get punishment at this time.

A 30-year-old man, James Clinton Gilmore, was recently arrested and is being held on a bond of $500,000 for a charge of sexual battery. Mr. Gilmore was at a friend's house who discovered Gilmore in the bedroom of a 13 year old with his pants at his ankles. A St. Johns County Sheriff stopped Gilmore in his car soon after the incident and arrested him. You can read more about this incident at Local St. Augustine Florida Man Charged with Sexual Battery on a Minor. This case involved a criminal matter at this time. A civil case can be filed against Gilmore depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. It typically is difficult to collect a judgment against an individual like Gilmore. Sexual assault and battery cases against churches, schools, businesses, and day cares are another story. Typically, there is insurance in place or assets available to collect upon a judgment. If you have a question about an abuse, battered, or molested Florida child, it is helpful to discuss the matter with a Florida child injury lawyer who understands civil cases of this nature.

The St. Johns County Sheriff's office recently arrested James Eugene Whaley, Jr. for sexual battery on a child. Mr. Whaley was arrested after the victim's 8 year old brother stepped up and reported the matter to a family friend. Mr. Whaley was given a place to stay by the victim's father. This case shows the dangers of leaving your children with a stranger or with a person who you do not know very well. It is unknown if Mr. Whaley had a prior record of sexual assaults on children. Mr. Whaley who is only 21 years old faces a long time behind bars for his actions if this case is successfully prosecuted. You can read more about this disturbing story at Babysitter Faces Sexual Battery Charges.

Sexual battery on children take place in a number of settings in the State of Florida including day care centers, schools, summer camps, churches, and community centers. Pursuing a civil case against an individual or business for a child injury caused by sexual abuse / battery is not always an easy task since many insurance policies do not cover the intentional criminal acts of another person. There is, however, a way around this by alleging there was negligence on the part of the day care center, school, or church for the failure to complete a background check, failure to supervise, and / or the negligent hiring or retention of the employee. If your child has been the victim of child abuse or neglect in a day care center, school, or church, contact a Florida Child Injury Lawyer for advice.

A disturbing incident took place in Ponte Vedra Florida recently. Ponte Vedra is located just South East of Jacksonville. It is a nice place to vacation and live with great beaches, restaurants and homes. Unfortunately, the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club was the site of the arrest of Andrew Warren Hahn, 24, who was charged with video voyeurism for taking photos of a 3 year old and 8 year old in the locker room. Mr. Hahn was confronted by the father of the children and later apprehended by security guards. He was later arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. It appears that Mr. Hahn's cell phone will be a primary piece of evidence for the criminal case.

As a parent and Florida child injury lawyer, I am most concerned about the actions of Mr. Hahn and will advise parents to stay close to their children in any situation where strangers may be present to commit lewd acts.

The events at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club should prompt parents to stay close to their children and to ask any questions when something unusual takes place. The father of the children did a good job of confronting Mr. Hahn and getting the security involved to apprehend him. Hopefully, Mr. Hahn had not done this in the past at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club. Obviously, if the evidence confirms the allegations, Mr. Hahn should not be allowed back in the club or around children for that matter.

You can read more about the incident at the St. Augustine Record at Jacksonville man arrested on video voyeurism charge

The Neptune Beach Jacksonville Florida Police Department is investigating an incident of alleged gang rape of a 15 year old at a house party in Neptune Beach, Florida. Underage teens were having a party at a home in Neptune Beach. There were approximately 20 teens at the party. The 15 year old was a house guest of the family owning or renting the home rather than a party goer according to her father. At this time, the investigating officer from the Neptune Beach Police Department is having problems getting statements since most of the party goers have been in contact with lawyers who have advised their clients not to give a statement to the police. Many of the students attending the party were from a private school called the Bolles School. It does not appear that the party was an event sponsored or sanctioned by the school. As written in other posts, parents should be mindful of graduation parties and the problems created by underage drinking. You can read more about the alleged gang rape in an article written by Jim Schoettler, a writer with The Times-Union Jacksonville Florida Newspaper at Parents Stall Gang Rape Investigation.

The house party / rape incident will involve Jacksonville Florida criminal attorneys during the criminal investigation and prosecution if the Duval County state attorney decides there is enough evidence to prosecute the case. The incident may also involve Jacksonville Florida civil and personal injury attorneys if the rape victim and her family retain an attorney to pursue civil damages against the alleged rapists, their families, the owners of the home, the suppliers of the alcohol, and possibly others. It appears the entire incident may have been avoided with better supervision and the elimination of any underage and excessive drinking of alcohol.

Teenagers are committing crimes every day on their cell phones and the Internet in Jacksonville Florida and other communities around the United States. Because of these acts, some teens may need a criminal attorney to defend them while others may consider hiring a civil attorney to pursue damages for the heinous acts of posted nude photographs on the web and e mail the photographs to others. Posting photographs of a teen's boyfriend, girlfriend, or (in many instances) the ex has landed many in hot water. You can read more about the poor judgment and criminal acts of teens at Naked Photos and E Mail Get Teens in Trouble. It should emphasized that the children are the victims of this crime. What may seem humorous to one teen is really a nightmare for others. As parents and guardians of our children, we should do everything we can to monitor and stop this kind of behavior.

An 18 year old man (Bruce Roberts) was recently arrested for attempting to molest a 15 year old at the South Mandarin Jacksonville Florida Public Library. The incident took place in the men's bathroom at the library. Roberts tried to molest the teen in the bathroom. The teen pushed Roberts away and promptly told his mother. Library staff members reported the tag member for a BMW that had dropped Roberts off at the library. The Jacksonville Times Union newspaper reported that Roberts may be mentally challenged. The South Mandarin Library is located in Mandarin which is a suburban area with some commerce down San Jose Boulevard located in South Jacksonville / South Duval County Florida.

DNA testing begins for Polygamy Sect Members in Texas.

Officials are having problems sorting out family relationships within the sect. Names have been changed and sect members have not been very cooperative with the investigation. As such, Officials will attempt to use DNA testing to re-create and identify family trees. Sect members are suspected of allowing and encouraging underage marriages and sexual relationships. You can read more about the status of the case involving the Yearning for Zion Sect at DNA Tests Begin in Polygamy Case.

New legislation has been proposed by Florida's Attorney General that would provide for a minimum of $150,000 in civil damages against individuals who download and distribute images of child's sexual abuse.

The Exploited Children’s Rights Act will make Florida the first state to allow victims of Florida-based child pornography to seek civil remedies against those who download images of that child’s sexual abuse. The legislation will also allow the Attorney General’s Office to pursue these cases on behalf of the victims at their request. You can read more about the bill and the reasons for its proposal at the Florida Attorney General Website.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement launched a new automatic e mail notification system to track sexual offenders and predators.

You can go to www.floridaoffenderalert.com to sign up for this valuable service. I did it myself by registering my e mail address. I then received an e mail with a link to complete the registration process. I inputed my address and now will receive an e mail any time that a Florida registered sexual offender or predator moves within 5 miles of my home. I will certainly alert my friends and neighbors of such e mails. You can also go to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement web site to research specific sexual predators and offenders. You can even find out if a certain e mail address or instant messenger address belongs to a Florida sexual predator or offender. Prevention and safety often times avoid the need to retain the services of a Florida personal injury lawyer. You can read more about the highlights of the program at the Jacksonville Florida Times Union newspaper web site at
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Web Site Offers Alerts About Sex Offenders.

Children are placed in Juvenile Detention Centers across the nation when they commit crimes. Ideally, the time spent away from home will improve the situation for the child.

In many cases, however, bad situations get worse especially when the child is abused or neglected by detention officials and other juvenile inmates. A study was recently performed that showed that 13,000 children across the nation were abused or neglected in the juvenile detention system. You can read more about this interesting but tragic study at Associated Press (AP) Finds that 13000 Children Were Reported to be Abused Across the Nation in 4 Year Time Period.

Many of you have seen the Dateline NBC Shows - "To Catch a Predator".

I was curious to find out how much time the typical predator caught in the sting would get. A Jacksonville man, Matthew Chitty (age 30), pleaded guilty of multiple counts of using a computer to solicit sex from a child. Mr. Chitty believed he was online chatting with a 14 year old, who was actually an undercover officer. Mr. Chitty was sentenced to 5 years probation and will have to register as a sex offender.

The computer is a great tool (but also a danger) to our children. It is important for every parent to monitor the child's computer use because of the Matthew Chittys of this world. Jacksonville Man Sentenced 5 Years for Soliciting A Child for Sex.

A Kindergarten teacher in Arizona kept working at her job despite charges she had a sexual relationship with a 16 year old. The charges seem solid in that a teen fathered the teacher's child. Once word got out that the teacher was still in the school system . . . the teacher, Angela Csader, was barred from school property. Csader showed poor judgment in having sex with a teen and even more poor judgment, maybe even arrogance, in her decision to keep on teaching. What a poor example this lady has set for young people and the community. You can read more at Kindergarten Teacher Kept Teaching.

The Florida Department of Children and Families is charged with the responsibility of investigating and preventing the abuse and neglect of children throughout the State of Florida.

The Florida DCF recently got a "black eye" of sorts when a former spokesman, Al Zimmerman, was charged with paying two 16 year olds for sexually explicit photographs. One of the victims also stated that Zimmerman offered $200 for sex. It is truly outrageous that Mr. Zimmerman committed these acts when he was once trusted with protecting the children of Florida from predators like him. You can read more about this story at Former DCF Spokesman Hit with Federal Porn Charges.

In Jacksonville, Florida, a local middle school, Fletcher Middle School, has been in the news since semi nude and inappropriate photographs of students showed up on the Internet on myspace and possible other sites. No arrests have been made as of yet regarding these postings and photographs. Parents should pay close attention to their children's internet use. More information about the situation with the Fletcher students and parents techniques to protect their children from overuse of computers and being the victim of a predator can be read at Parents Look to Ensure Kids Are Safe Online.

Victims and other persons can qualify for compensation under Florida Crimes Compensation Act. Pursuant to Section 960.065, Eligibility for Awards as follows:

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), the following persons shall be eligible for awards pursuant to this chapter:

(a) A victim.

(b) An intervenor.

(c) A surviving spouse, parent or guardian, sibling, or child of a deceased victim or intervenor.

(d) Any other person who is dependent for his or her principal support upon a deceased victim or intervenor.

(2) Any claim filed by or on behalf of a person who:

(a) Committed or aided in the commission of the crime upon which the claim for compensation was based;

(b) Was engaged in an unlawful activity at the time of the crime upon which the claim for compensation is based;

(c) Was in custody or confined, regardless of conviction, in a county or municipal detention facility, a state or federal correctional facility, or a juvenile detention or commitment facility at the time of the crime upon which the claim for compensation is based;

(d) Has been adjudicated as a habitual felony offender, habitual violent offender, or violent career criminal under s. 775.084; or

(e) Has been adjudicated guilty of a forcible felony offense as described in s. 776.08,

shall not be eligible for an award.

(3) Any claim filed by or on behalf of a person who was in custody or confined, regardless of adjudication, in a county or municipal facility, a state or federal correctional facility, or a juvenile detention, commitment, or assessment facility at the time of the crime upon which the claim is based, who has been adjudicated as a habitual felony offender under s. 775.084, or who has been adjudicated guilty of a forcible felony offense as described in s. 776.08, shall not be eligible for an award. Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon a finding by the Crime Victims' Services Office of the existence of mitigating or special circumstances that would render such a disqualification unjust, an award may be approved. A decision that mitigating or special circumstances do not exist in a case subject to this section shall not constitute final agency action subject to review pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.

(4) Payment may not be made under this chapter if the person who committed the crime upon which the claim is based will receive any direct or indirect financial benefit from such payment, unless such benefit is minimal or inconsequential. Payment may not be denied based on the victim's familial relationship to the offender or based upon the sharing of a residence by the victim and offender, except to prevent unjust enrichment of the offender.

History.--s. 1, ch. 77-452; s. 1, ch. 79-297; s. 4, ch. 80-146; s. 2, ch. 85-326; s. 10, ch.

Jacksonville residents protested and rallied against a home where up to 6 registered sex offenders are residing. A company or group called the Philadelphia Christian Center owns the home and only commented that the home has met all legal requirements for Florida. Apparently, there are 15 children in the area of Wandering Trail, according to resident Diane Knowles. While no laws may have been broken, this news story shows the importance of being informed and aware of your neighbors especially those who have been identified as registered sex offenders. You can perform a search of your neighborhood and other parts of Florida by going to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Web Site - Florida Sexual Offenders and Predators. I did a search for 1 mile from my home. There were no registered offenders or predators in my direct neighborhood but there was one in a friend's neighborhood. I will be sure to inform my friend of the offender.