The Florida Sexual Predator’s Act, Florida Statute 775.21, is an act that gives the grounds for the types of offenses that can be considered sexual predator crimes, and the penalties for these offenses. Sexual predators are known to be repeat offenders, and they pose a direct threat to families with children, using physical force and violence to commit their crimes.
Being labeled as a sexual predator is a serious thing.
Sexual Predator Offenses
Sexual predators commonly prey on children. However this is not the only offense that determines whether an individual is a sexual predator or not. In order for a criminal to be labeled as a sexual predator, they must have (a) committed a violent sexual crime, (b) be a repeat sexual offender, or (c) commit any sexual crime that involves a child.
Some of the offenses in this category include:
- Sexual performances by a child
- Unlawful sexual activity with a child
- Child prostitution
- Child pornography
- Transmission of child pornography through an electronic device, such as a computer
- Public exposure in the presence of a minor child
- Lewd or lascivious acts performed upon a child, an elderly person or a disabled adult
- The rape of a minor
In Florida, there are various penalties a sexual predator can face. The most common and consistent is prison time-a minimum of fifteen years, in most cases. In addition, all sexual predators must register as sexual predators immediately upon being convicted, or within forty eight hours in certain circumstances.
Sex offender registration includes the following information, and more:
- Birth date
- Finger prints
- Photograph and full description
- Social security number
- Current and temporary addresses
If convicted as a sexual predator, you will be required to report to the sheriff’s station in your town to re-register on your birthday each year, and every subsequent three months for the entirety of your life. You will then be required to report any changes to your physical appearance or address immediately.