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Arrests Continue During the COVID-19 Crisis

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Arrests Continue During the COVID-19 Crisis

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While most people are focused on avoiding coronavirus exposure and how they will pay their bills, there are still individuals who are getting arrested and charged with violating Florida law. Some arrests are for COVID-19-related violations, while others are for traditional criminal activity, which persists during a crisis.

It is important to remember that police officers are still actively enforcing the law, as well as serving warrants when appropriate. One Florida man recently tried to avoid arrest on several warrants by pretending he was infected. He put a sign on his door stating “COVID-19 infected since 4/8/20,” though this did not deter police officers. Instead, they wore full protective gear and arrested the man anyway. There is no indication the man actually had COVID-19. The police agency stated that pretending to be infected will not stop an arrest.

Other arrests that are common in recent times involve the following offenses:

  • Terroristic threats or terrorism for threatening or attempting to infect others with the virus
  • Fraud stemming from scams relating to false healthcare equipment sales, fake IRS schemes, and more
  • Theft, including shoplifting
  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Violating state health orders

If you are arrested, you can still be taken to jail and arraigned on criminal charges despite certain court closures. It is important that you contact a criminal defense lawyer in Melbourne as soon as possible so you can protect your rights and start building a defense strategy.

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Melbourne, Florida Right Away

The coronavirus outbreak did not halt law enforcement, and Harnage Law is ready to represent clients who are arrested during this uncertain time. In order to learn about your options from a Melbourne criminal defense attorney, please call 321.549.7886 or contact us online for a consultation today.