Florida Man Arrested for Cyberstalking Police Officer on Facebook
Cyberstalking is easy to do because you are behind a computer screen but the law still takes it seriously. A person can get arrested and face serious charges for stalking or harassing a person from an electronic device.
A Florida man was recently arrested for cyberstalking a Pinellas Park police officer. The man had sent the unidentified officer a whopping 120 Facebook messages in just a two-hour span.
The 39-year-old man had been arrested by the same police officer in 2020 for domestic battery and resisting arrest. Four years later, the man started sending messages to the officer on social media. The messages included threats to kill the victim.
The police officer was granted an injunction for protection against the man, but it expired on January 6, 2026. Just a few weeks later, on January 23, the man started sending the messages again. This time, the content of the messages revolved around blaming the police officer for not being able to join the United States Army and CIA due to his arrest and convictions in 2020.
The man was relentless and showed no remorse, even telling the police officer through Facebook that he did not care if he went back to jail.
FAQs About Cyberstalking
Q: What counts as cyberstalking in Florida?
A: Florida law (Statute § 784.048) treats cyberstalking as a form of stalking carried out through electronic means. It generally involves:
- Repeated online behavior (not just one message).
- Use of texts, emails, social media, or other digital communication.
- Conduct directed at a specific person.
- Actions that cause substantial emotional distress.
- Behavior that serves no legitimate purpose.
Q: Does the victim have to feel threatened?
A: Not necessarily. While threats can elevate the charge, cyberstalking can still occur if the behavior causes serious emotional distress, even without an explicit threat of harm.
Q: What is “aggravated cyberstalking”?
A: Aggravated cyberstalking is a felony. It typically involves:
- A credible threat of violence.
- Violating a protective injunction.
- Targeting a minor (under 16).
Q: Is cyberstalking a federal crime or just a state crime?
A: Cyberstalking can be both. Many cases are handled under Florida state law, but certain situations, especially those involving interstate communication or serious threats, may fall under federal law as well.
Q: What are the penalties for cyberstalking in Florida?
- Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and a fine
- Felony (aggravated): Up to five years in prison and higher fines
Contact a Legal Professional for Help
Stalking is stalking, and when it happens from behind a computer, it makes it easier to do but it does not make it any better in the eyes of the law. Florida law is strict in this regard, as nobody wants to be harassed and stalked online by anyone, especially a stranger.
A Florida computer & internet crime lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can assist you if you are facing charges. We can help preserve your rights and freedom. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling (352) 505-1799 or filling out the online form.
Source:
wtsp.com/article/news/crime/man-arrested-stalking-pinellas-park-officer/67-85790797-30b9-46e2-bce2-57ada026d68c
