When facing criminal accusations, it is wise to protect yourself and seek a good criminal defense attorney. However, when awaiting trial and sentencing it is important to tread carefully and with caution as to your actions. Some individuals have made grave mistakes in giving themselves away to authorities by use of social media.
Social Media websites and applications such as Facebook are a great way to stay connected to family and friends. Unfortunately, it is also one of the easiest ways to get caught. In one instance of a man who had allegedly committed battery in Florida, police officials were able to find the individual due to the fact that he placed his wanted photo as his profile picture
The individual in question, Mack Yearwood, has not yet been charged with the battery allegations, but officers say this is due to the case is still being under investigation. Coincidentally, when officers came upon him unexpectedly in his brother’s home he was found to be carrying weed, which did lead to a cannabis possession charge.
Using Social Media to Commit a Crime
Other ways Facebook can end up being a criminal mistake is when its use drives an individual to commit types of harassment or stalking. In a recent case in Miami, A 23-year-old woman was sentenced to 22 months in prison due to illegal cyberstalking. Sources claim that the woman made over 900 calls and texts to a victim that were unwanted and unsolicited.
The convicted, Kassandra Cruz, had evidently sent out friend requests to the victim on both Facebook and Instagram under a false identity in 2015. In addition, after being blocked by the victim on the accounts, Cruz set out to threaten the individual’s job and family life and asked for $100,000 in exchange for her silence.
Please be aware that internet crimes are also heavily punishable by law, and that cyberstalking and cyberbullying are considered criminal activity. If you have been accused of a crime in Miami, it is best to consult a criminal law office to help handle your case. Feel free to contact the Spatz Law Firm for more information.
References:
Miami student sentenced to 22 months in prison for cyberstalking on social media. (2016). Retrieved September 06, 2016, from http://wsvn.com/news/local/woman-sentenced-to-22-months-in-prison-for-cyberstalking/
Thorbecke, C. (n.d.). Florida Suspect Uses His Own Wanted Poster as Facebook Profile Picture. Retrieved September 06, 2016, from http://abcnews.go.com/US/florida-suspect-wanted-poster-facebook-profile-picture/story?id=41822973