Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Does the Smell of Marijuana Justify a Search of Your Car in Florida?
During a traffic stop, Florida law enforcement officers are always on the lookout for anything that might suggest the driver is guilty of something other than running a red light. Of course, the police cannot simply search your vehicle without consent or place you under arrest without probable cause. Probable cause, in turn, requires… Read More »
Are Robbery, Burglary, and Theft Different Crimes in Florida?
Legal terminology is often confusing for people who do not work inside the criminal justice system everyday. For example, if you read that someone has been charged with “burglary,” you might ask, “Is that same thing as theft?” For that matter, is “robbery” the same thing as burglary or theft? Theft In reality, these… Read More »
What Are the Penalties for a DUI First Offense in Florida?
A drunk driving arrest is often the first time many Miami-Dade residents find themselves dealing directly with Florida’s criminal justice system. The experience is understandably overwhelming and scary. If you are in this position, you will no doubt have many questions about the penalties you face if convicted of DUI. Will I go to… Read More »
Can a Store Employee Get You Arrested for Shoplifting in Florida?
In the past few years, large retail chains like Wal-Mart and Target have been particularly aggressive in pursuing suspected shoplifters. You might think shoplifting is not a major crime. In most cases such “retail theft” is a misdemeanor punishable by no more than 60 days and a $500 fine. But depending on the value… Read More »
Representing Client who was Mocked and Attacked by Sheriff Grady Judd
POLK COUNTY, Fla – Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd’s use of press conferences to ridicule and mock those charged with crimes continues to disrupt individuals’ Due Process Rights. On May 20, 2022, Sheriff Judd, held a press conference in which he made a mockery of the incident that took place at a local McDonalds…. Read More »
Representing Kevin Desir’s Family
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The family of a South Florida man who died while in custody at a BSO facility in Pompano Beach wants answers. Kevin Desir was 43-years-old when family members say Broward County corrections officers beat him while he was being held by jail staff. Sercilia Desir says, “My son, they can kill… Read More »
