Whittel & Melton, LLC 866-608-5529 – Florida Sex Crime Attorneys
A 58-year-old Indialantic, Florida doctor was charged with one felony count of unlawful sexual activity with a minor and one felony count of delivery of a controlled substance to a minor after authorities received a tip in May 2011 that the doctor was a leading prescriber of prescription drugs in Brevard County.
The investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Orlando Regional Operations Center, the Melbourne Police Department, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and the Winter Park Police Department supposedly revealed that the doctor prescribed more than 250,000 oxycodone pills during an eight-month period. The patients allegedly received slight medical evaluation.
According to authorities, the investigation apparently divulged a sexual relationship between the doctor and a minor. The doctor allegedly supplied the juvenile with prescription drugs.
The Florida Department of Health immediately suspended the doctor from practicing medicine.
The doctor was arrested and taken to the Brevard County Jail. The investigation is ongoing.
Unlawful sexual activity with a minor is a second degree felony and is also known as statutory rape in the state of Florida. The prosecution must prove the following elements to make statutory rape charges stick:
The theory behind statutory rape is that the minor is incapable of consenting to the sexual act. This is why like any type of rape charge, statutory rape must be taken quite seriously. Severe consequences can erupt from a statutory rape conviction including hefty prison sentences and lifetime registration as a sexual offender. The social ramifications of being labeled a sex offender can perpetually limit your ability to form personal relationships, gain employment and acquire suitable housing.
Statutory rape charges accusation can be made not only by the alleged victim, but virtually anyone who has reason to believe unlawful sexual activity took place. Many times charges are brought up by the parents. It is important to be aware that even if the minor involved does not want to press charges or claims the sex was consensual, prosecutors will still likely move forward with the case.
Ultimately, all statutory rape cases have unique facts and require a well-rounded defense strategy. The Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys at Whittel & Melton specialize in the defense of sex crimes and can develop a positive defense to combat statutory rape charges.
If you are facing a potential statutory rape charge or have already been arrested, contact the Florida Sex Crimes Attorneys at Whittel & Melton online or dial us toll-free at 866-608-5529.