Florida FBI Agents Killed in Shootout Were Said to Be Investigating Child Pornography

According to news reports, a pair of FBI agents recently killed in a South Florida shootout were executing a warrant related to a child pornography investigation.

Special Agents Laura Schwartzenberger and Daniel Alfin tragically died in the line of duty in early February. The shootout in a residential gated community in Sunrise has brought national attention to the area and spotlights law enforcement efforts to combat sex crimes in Florida.

Three other agents were wounded in the shooting. David Huber, a Florida resident who is not a police officer, was also killed. Authorities have not said what, if any, role Huber played in the investigation.

The agents were part of a unit focusing on violent crimes against children, according to CNN. Although the FBI has not shared details on what the agents were doing in Sunrise, an agents association says they were executing a warrant related to suspicion of child pornography possession.

The shooting started shortly after 6:00 a.m., Sunrise police told CNN. The suspect the agents were looking for had barricaded himself and reportedly opened fire as they approached.

Schwartzenberger and Alfin dedicated their careers to combating crimes against children, according to CNN. Alfin was reportedly involved in the infamous “Playpen” investigation in which 350 people were arrested in connection with a global child sexual exploitation ring.

Florida Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Sex Crimes

The tragic deaths come as state, and federal authorities continue to crack down on a wide range of sex offenses in Florida, especially those involving child pornography or victims who are minors.

Anyone who has been charged with child pornography or other sex crimes in Florida has the right to defend themselves in court. These cases can raise several difficult legal and factual questions, making it vital to get a seasoned attorney in your corner as soon as possible.

A Florida child pornography lawyer at Whittel and Melton can help you understand your rights and options while building the strongest possible defense. A lawyer can also help you consider plea deals to resolve these cases.

How a Florida Child Pornography Lawyer Can Help

If you or a loved one has been charged with or is suspected of a sex crime in Florida, it is vital to seek an experienced attorney’s advice.

At Whittel & Melton, our Florida sex crime attorneys represent clients across the state who have been charged with a wide variety of offenses, including child pornography, sexual assault, rape, internet solicitation and offenses involving victims who are minors. We work tirelessly to fight these charges head on.

Our firm handles cases throughout the state, including in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Pensacola. Contact us online or call (866) 608-5529 for a free evaluation with a Fort Lauderdale child pornography lawyer.