Fort Myers Criminal Law Blog

Millions of Americans are affected by drug abuse, and some of those addicted turn to illegal activities to obtain the drugs they need. Imprisonment is often the penalty someone faces for involvement with illicit drugs—but there may be another option, especially for a first-time offender: drug rehabilitation.

Recognizing the problem

A Florida woman recently pleaded guilty to federal charges of SNAP fraud. A program that was previously known as the Food Stamp program and later changed to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is a federally run program to assist individuals and families with low incomes by providing money to buy food. The Florida Department of Children and Families says the funds are strictly redeemable on essential food products only, although some white collar crimes cases involve SNAP fraud.

The 34-year-old woman was indicted for allegedly defrauding the SNAP system of about $3,000 over a period of 11 months between March 2015 and Feb. 2016. Court documents indicate that, of the seven counts of SNAP fraud, the accused woman pleaded guilty on only three counts, although she pleaded guilty on both counts of government fund theft. Reportedly, she agreed to pay restitution in full to the department that oversees the SNAP program.

Regardless of background or upbringing, teenagers in Florida could become involved in unsavory activities. Peer pressure could be powerful, and many young ones have faced charges of juvenile crimes because they were conned into the belief that stealing something like a Snickers bar is petty theft, which is as insignificant as it sounds. However, the consequences can be all but petty. Any type of theft is a crime that society considers as immoral or unacceptably dishonest, and as such, it can count against a suspect of petty theft in many ways -- including having to reveal this record in job applications in the future.

When it comes to convictions, even first offenders can be harshly punished. Circumstances will determine whether a lenient sentence -- such as a juvenile diversion program, community service or probation -- will apply, or a fine and a possible one-year jail sentence. However, when it comes to repeat offenders, even of the same petty theft crimes, punishment can be significantly more severe.

Driving while impaired risks not only the life of the driver but also his or her passengers and other road users. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a driver to think his or her blood alcohol level is below the legal limit. While a Florida driver might think a drunk driving charge could be the worst thing that could happen, certain things can aggravate DUI charges to make them even worse.

A driver under the age of 21 years can be charged even if he or she had only one drink -- based on the zero tolerance DUI laws. If any driver commits a repeat DUI offense, punishment will be more severe. For a second drunk driving offense, the fine will be higher, and an ignition interlock device might be ordered. Also, a longer license suspension, community service and jail time might be part of the punishment. When it is the third conviction, time behind bars will be almost a given.