Recent Posts in Criminal Defense Category

In Lebanon, Ohio, it is reported that a woman who was visiting the Warren Correctional Institution is now facing felony charges for smuggling drugs into the facility. 

Police report that the female visitor, 19-year-old Kiara Taylor, was caught by troopers.  She was arrested by Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers and then charged with a third-degree felony and a fifth degree felony of possessing criminal tools.

Police say they were tipped off that Taylor would be trying to smuggle drugs to an inmate at the institution during a scheduled visit. They say that when Taylor first arrived, she was confronted by officers about the drugs. She then voluntarily surrendered a candy bar wrapper that contains 16 g of marijuana.

If she is convicted, she will face up to seven years in prison as well as a $15,000 fine.

Have you been charged with a serious drug crime in Orlando?  If so, contact our law office today to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

This weekend at Universal Orlando a Pittsburgh police officer was placed under arrest for shoplifting.  Officers say that 49-year-old Henry Rogowski shoplifted Harry Potter merchandise totaling $329.70.

Police say that Rogowski stole photo album, key chains, playing cards, bookmarks and other items from Universal Orlando.

The theft crimes took place at Filch's Emporium at Islands of Adventure.  According to a report filed with the police department, investigators say that Rogowski told them he didn't feel like waiting in line to pay for the items.  He was arrested by police and charged with grand theft.

At this time, the Pittsburg Bureau of Police are refusing to comment on the case.

Have you been charged with felony or misdemeanor theft?  Contact the Rivas Law Group to get the legal representation your deserve from anOrlando criminal defense lawyer.  We can help you combat our theft crime charges and avoid harsh penalties, like jail time, fines and restitution.

In Vineland, police and the county say that they have made 24 arrests during the month of June and August.  The arrests are the result of an ongoing drug crime investigation.

The police investigation targeted street-level drug dealers in an area around 7^th and Cherry Streets. 

The investigation was conducted by Vineland city police in partnership with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office.  Officers say that they arrested 20 local residents as well as for people from Bridgeton.  The arrests were made on June 24^th and 25^th as well as August 11^th and 12^th.

If you have been charged with a serious drug crime in Orlando, you need to do everything you can to protect yourself.  One of the best things you can do is hire an Orlando criminal defense attorney from the Rivas Law Firm.  Contact our practice to set up a case evaluation with a lawyer who can help you fight your criminal charges.

In the city of Mascotte, police say that a young boy helped his pregnant mother fight off a sexual predator.  She allegedly used the broom to hit the man who had straddled his mother and who tried to rip open her shirt.

After being hit with the broom, the sexual assailant left the family's home and police were able to track him down near his residence.  He was arrested and now faces charges of aggravated battery, attempted rape, burglary and child abuse for pushing the boy.

55-year-old Michael Minchey called the victim a "crack whore" and a liar when questioned by police.  He is currently being held on $60,000 bond.

Officers say that Minchey walked into the home uninvited, grabbed a mother from behind and declared "I want some."  The boy had heard his mother struggling and found her fighting the predator on the floor.  The mother managed to knee Minchey in the groin before the son struck him with the broom.

Have you been charged with a criminal offense in Orlando?  If so, contact the Rivas Law Firm and discuss your case with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

In Concord, New Hampshire, a third man that stood accused of helping rob a grocery store in Dover at gunpoint was sentenced.  Anthony Harris, who is 40 years old, was sentenced with 22 years in prison for his role in the theft crime.

Harris was convicted in federal court of five charges, including using a gun to commit robbery.  According to U.S. Attorney John Kacavas, Harris went into the Hannaford store one hour before the robbery took place in September 2008.  Harris identified the night manager and then served as a getaway driver.

Two other men, Orlando Matos and Thomas Peterson, already pled guilty.  They were sentenced with 7 and 14 years respectively.  Kacavas said that the case was resolved when Peterson slipped and fell while in the store, dropping his cell phone as he left the scene of the crime.

Charged with theft or a serious felony?  Contact us today to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

This week, it was reported that a former City Councilmember was sentenced to five years of probation.  The Councilmember, 61 year old Marianne Greer of Colusa City, was charged with embezzlement.  She allegedly stole more than $100,000 from a former Sutter County judge and district attorney.

In June, Geer pled no contest to stealing $127,000.  She was accused of taking the money while working as for three years as a receptionist and office manager for Dave Teja.

Prior to losing her re-election in 1996, Geer served seven years on the City Council. 

If you have been charged with a white collar crime, such as embezzlement, you cannot afford to take your charges lightly.  Instead, you need to get help from an Orlando criminal defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm immediately.  To learn how our legal team can help you fight your charges, contact us now to schedule a case evaluation.

This month, the three suspects that were involved in the shooting of a three year old boy were arraigned.  Each defendant was charged with armed robbery and aggravated assault.

During the arraignment, Chatham County's Recorder's Court Judge Claire Cornwell-Williams set preliminary hearings for the defendants:  Orlando Green (20), Eric Grimes (17) and Narze Walker (18).

The judge also ordered that all of the defendants should remain in jail without bond.  Due to the nature of the criminal charges, only a superior court judge could technically issue a bond.

When people have been charged with violent crimes in Florida, they are facing some of the toughest legal penalties if they are convicted.  For this reason, people should always hire an Orlando criminal defense attorney that can help them fight their charges, inform them of their legal rights and protect their best interests throughout the duration of their cases.  To learn more, contact the Rivas Law Firm today!

In Daytona Beach, it is reported that a felon was sentenced with 10 years of jail time.  The man, 46 year old John R. Harper, allegedly set a homeless man on fire due to an argument over money, beer and cigarettes.

Harper faced five years of jail time for setting Dean Allen Fultz on fire in September of 2009.  However, Harper was sentenced with 10 year because the prosecutor was able to prove that he was a habitual felony offender.

According to court document, Harper, Fultz and a few others were drinking in a backyard when they got into a fight over money.  Fultz offered to take Harper to his camp in the woods to pay him back.  Then, witnesses saw Fultz running from the camp with his clothing on fire.

Police say that Fultz suffered serious burns to his hands, arms, neck and face. 

Anytime people have been charged with violent crimes in the state of Florida, they should consult with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer at the Rivas Law Firm.  Contact us now!

Police in Edgewater report that a 14 year old girl was raped this week.  Officers say that prior to the sex crime, the girl had been given drugs that left her physically unable to resist the attacker.

Now, 27 year old Geoffrey Elliott Goodrich of Port Orange is facing a charge of sexual battery.  At this time, he is being held in the Volusia County Branch Jail and his bail amount has been set at $100,000.

Prior to his arrest, Goodrich admitted to the sexual assault and said that he gave the juvenile narcotics and prescription medications. 

If you have been charged with a sex crime in Orlando, it is important that you seek help from an Orlando criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.  Sex crime charges are very difficult to combat, which is why you need help from a skilled lawyer.  Contact the Rivas Law Firm now to learn more about your rights and options.

This month, police say that they were able to arrest crack dealer after receiving tips to a drug hotline.  The tips led police to the crack dealers' home, which was near Abney Elementary School.

Investigators say that they had been monitoring the house for numerous weeks after receiving a series of phone calls about suspicious activity at the residence.  Based on their surveillance, members of the department's narcotics division determined that crimes were being committed in the home.

The department managed to execute a search warrant at the house.  Once inside, they found three residents as well as 17 rocks of crack cocaince, marijuana, pills and two guns. 

The residents of the house, Darryle Smith, Tiffany Brown and Orlando Gillum, were arrested and charged with possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm while in possession of drugs, being convicted felons in possession of a firearm, possession of drugs within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of clonzapam and possession of carisoprodol.

Have you been charged with serious drug crimes in Orlando?  If so, contact the Rivas Law Firm and consult with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer immediately.

This month, Nigel Carr was arrested by police for burglary, property damage, theft of a credit card and fraud.  Carr is the projected starter at weak-side linebacker for Florida State University.

Police report that Carr broke into a white Toyota and stole a book bag that contained the victim's purse and credit card.  Carr also stands accused of breaking into another vehicle on the University's campus.

When asked about the crimes, Head Coach Jimbo Fisher seemed disappointed and said that Carr "had been doing great". 

If Carr is convicted of a felony, Coach Fisher said that he would be suspended, but would not say for how long.

At this time, Carr is being held in Leon County jail on a $15,000 bond.

The Rivas Law Firm represents those who have been charged with crimes in Orlando.  Contact us today to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney about your charges and legal options.

Recently, police say that they have arrested 22 year old Darius Brown.  After his arrest, Brown was charged with one count of murder and four counts of malicious wounding in the death of a 17 month old.

Police say that the 17 month old boy was being babysat by Darius, who was a friend of the child's mother.  Police received a call about an unresponsive child and began to investigate.

When they arrived at the scene, they found the baby in a bedroom with obvious signs of trauma.  He was pronounced dead at the scene and authorities say the mother was at work when the death occurred.  Now, the case is being investigated by Child Protective Services as well as the Newport News Police Department's Special Victim's Unit.

Have you been charged with a felony, such as murder?  Contact us to discuss your case with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.

This week, while 20 year old Demetrius Jordan was lying in his hospital bed, a judge decided to increase his bond from $90,000 to $220,000.  Judge Don Horrox said his decision was mean to, "ensure not only that you (Jordan) will apear in court but also that you will not be a danger to the community."

According to police, Jordan was speeding when he ran a red light, killing an Orlando father and his three sons.  Jordan told officers that prior to the accident, he had consumed alcohol and marijuana.  When Jordan was taken to the hospital, it was revealed that his blood alcohol level was .154%, which is well above the state's legal limit.

Jordan has been charged with driving under the influence and faces charges of vehicular manslaughter.

If you have been charged with DUI in Orlando, contact the Rivas Law Firm and speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney today!

Recently, law enforcement officers in Corpus Christi say that they were able to arrest a man that assaulted an off-duty city marshal.  Prior to the assault, the marshal had tried to stop the man from shoplifting.

Upon learning of the incident, police in Corpus Christi issued an arrest warrant for 32 year old Orlando Garcia. 

On June 23^rd, City Marshal R. Guerrero was off duty when he was involved in a scuffle outside of a local Home Depot with the defendant.  During the assault, Guerrero suffered cuts on his arms.

Garcia was arrested in Robstown on suspicion of aggravated robbery following the incident.  He is currently being held in Nueces County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail.

If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Orlando, such as shoplifting or assault, you need to protect your best interests and hire an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.  To speak with an attorney, contact Rivas Law Firm today!

In Staten Island, police were able to arrest a man that was connected to a deadly hit and run accident.  The accident led to the death of a 47 year old woman.

According to police, David Lozan was behind the wheel of a black four door sedan that hit the victim while she was pulled over.  The victim had stopped her vehicle and was checking on a mechanical problem when she was struck on the corner of Targee Street and Laurel Avenue.

Before the hit and run, a good Samaritan saw the woman in distress and had pulled over his jeep to help her.  Moments later, Lozano tried to squeeze between the two parked vehicles and hit the victim's car, the victim and the car that belonged to the 23 year old Samaritan. 

After hitting the woman, Lozano sped north and was later apprehended by police who charged him with DUI and leaving the scene of an accident.

Charged with hit and run in Orlando?  If so, contact Rivas Law Firm and consult with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer!

Last month, an attempted rape in a pool restroom was reported to law enforcement.  Now, police say that they have made an arrest.

This month, police arrested 22 year old Fernandito Carpio in an attempted homicide.  Police say that while a female victim was entering her apartment, Carpio approached her.  He then sexually battered her before cutting her throat.  The 24 year old victim was able to escape from the back entrance of her residence and is currently recovering from her injuries.

Following the incident, police canvassed the area looking for the suspect.  Through an anonymous tip, they were able to bring the suspect into custody.

After they arrested Carpio, they noticed similarities between the recent attack and the attack that took place last month.  They showed a picture of Carpio to the first victims and she made a positive ID.  The second victim also identified Carpio as the man that had attacked her.

The Rivas Law Firm represents those who have been charged with serious felonies in Orlando.  If you have been charged with a felony, contact Rivas Law Firm and speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney today!

In Orlando, police say that they found a married couple dead inside of their Florida home.  Officers believe that the deaths were a murder-suicide.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, 52 year old Jose Duran shot his wife, 47 year old Aida Duran.  After killing his wife, he then turned the gun on himself.  Police found the bodies after the couple's adult son asked officers to check on his parents.

At this time, the sheriff's office is not saying what may have led to the murder and suicide.  However, they have revealed that there is no documented history of domestic violence.

Last week, the couple celebrated their 30^th wedding anniversary. 

If you have been charged with a felony offense, such as murder, it is imperative that you seek help from an Orlando criminal defense lawyer who can protect your rights.  Contact Rivas Law Firm to discuss your charges with a legal professional.

In Syracuse, New York, a woman was charged with prostitution and endangering the welfare of a child.  The charges were brought against 20 year old Constance M. Hollister after her customer saw a young child in the woman's home while the two were engaged in business. 

After the man went to police, officers moved forward and charged Hollister with two misdemeanor offenses. 

On June 29^th, police had received anonymous complaints of prostitution at Hollister's apartment, so they began an investigation.  One of the complaints came from the man who had spotted a child in the apartment while he was having sex with Hollister. 

An undercover officer was sent to Hollister's apartment and she offered to have sex with him for $190.   The officer said that the child was present when Hollister offered her services.  Following her arrest, Child Protective Services was notified.

Even though prostitution is a misdemeanor offense, people should still hire an Orlando criminal defense lawyer when they have been charged with this sex crime.  To ensure you get the representation you deserve, contact Rivas Law Firm now!

Police in Florida say that they were able to arrest three men that had tried to break into an ATM at Publix in Flagler County.  The men were caught by police while heading to the beach and removing their clothing.

According to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, the three suspects matched the description and were spotted heading to Flagler Beach pier less than 10 minutes after the attempted theft occurred.

The clothes that they were removing matched the clothes that were worn by the suspects on a surveillance tape.  Officers also found burglary tools.

Grant Morse (45), Patrick Giovine (20) and Ethan Gaboury (19) were all arrested by authorities.  Following their arrest, they were charged with attempted burglary of an ATM, wearing a mask during the commission of a felony, possession of burglary tools, obstruction by disguise and destruction of evidence.  At this time, they are being held in the Flagler County Inmate Facility in lieu of bail.

If you have been charged with a theft crime, such as burglary, now is the time to discuss your case with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.  To speak with a legal professional, contact Rivas Law Firm now!

In Orlando, a 17 year old was arrested by police after he allegedly stabbed a local librarian.  It is reported that the librarian had interrupted the boy while he was trying to rob the facility, which was closed for Independence Day weekend.

According to police, the boy fled into nearby woods and stayed there until he could no longer bear the bugs.  After he emerged from the woods, a store employee called 911 and police found the boy at a local restaurant.

Officers say that the librarian had stopped at the facility while it was closed to empty the book drop.  The boy then stabbed her in the throat, face and chest with a dull knife.  Thankfully, she survived despite her wounds.

The boy is now facing charges for attempted first-degree murder, occupied burglary, grand theft and possession of burglary tools.  He will be turning 18 next month.

If you would like to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney about your charges, contact Rivas Law Firm to set up an initial case evaluation.

This week, a 34 year old man from Daytona Beach received a sentence of 10 years in prison.  The judge presiding over the defendant's case ruled that he was qualified as a habitual offender and ordered jail time.

On March 9^th, Jermaine Bernard Riley was found guilty of selling cocaine.  In Riley's arrest affidavit, it is stated that a confidential informant was working with police when Riley sold him $80 worth of narcotics.  

State Attorney's spokesman Chris Kelly told news sources that Circuit Judge Patrick Kennedy sentenced Riley to 10 years in state prison.  Once that sentence is completed, he is ordered to serve 10 years of probation.

People who have been charged with drug crimes can face some of the toughest legal penalties imaginable.  For this reason, they should always hire an Orlando criminal defense attorney.  If you have been charged with a drug crime, contact Rivas Law Firm now!

In Leesburg, Florida, a man was placed under arrest at a city library.  Police say that 42 year old Kevin Baker had used a laptop and free WiFi to download child pornography.

Baker told police that he was homeless when they questioned him.  Now, he is facing 150 counts of possessing child pornography after detectives looked at his laptop and found illicit images of children.

Officers say that Baker admitted to using the library's free wireless to collect images through Limewire, a file sharing network.  One of the files was a video of a young girl engages in sex acts.

According to Sgt. James Vachon, police discovered Baker's illegal activities while they were in the midst of another investigation.  After being confronted by police, Baker voluntarily surrendered his computer.  Police then obtained a search warrant and conducted a forensic investigation.

Baker's bond amount has been set at $1.5 million ($10,000 per felony count).

People who have been charged with sex crimes in Orlando need to get help from an Orlando criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.  Contact Rivas Law Firm today if you have been charged with a sexual offense.

For the second time, a correctional officer from the Florida Department of Corrections was charged with driving under the influence (DUI).

The officer, 46 year old Christopher Eric Hudson, was arrested near Island Park Road and U.S. 41.  Hours after his arrest, he was released on pre-trial supervision.

A deputy said that he saw Hudson in a 2003 PT Cruiser speeding on U.S. 41 South.  He paced Hudson at 69 MPH in a 50 MPH zone.  When the deputy approached Hudson's vehicle, Hudson raised his hands in the air.  The deputy said that he could smell alcohol on Hudson's breath and that Hudson had bloodshot eyes.  Hudson also admitted to having a few drinks and told the deputy, "I might be a little intoxicated."

The officer asked Hudson to perform field sobriety tests and he failed three.  He refused to take a breath test.  During the deputy's investigation, he learned that Hudson was a DOC employee. 

In 1998, Hudson was convicted for DUI.  He has been employed with the DOC since May 25, 2001.

If you have been charged with multiple DUI, now is the time to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.  Don't wait - contact Rivas Law Firm now!

Police were in for quite a surprise when they conducted a house raid in Ormond Beach.  Agents investigating a marijuana-growing operation had entered a residence only to find the owner had 26 snakes - some were large and others were venomous.

Police say that the owner, 51 year old James Walsh, had 13 marijuana plants which he had tried to hide among tomato plants on his patio.  Officers also say that aside from the marijuana and snakes, Walsh had a monitor lizard and an opossum.  He kept all of his pets in aquariums, glass cases and storage tubs.

After months of investigating the home, Ormond Beach Police and agents from the multi-agency East Volusia Narcotics Task Force raided the home.  Agents also seized 49 grams of cultivated marijuana, drug paraphernalia, growing equipment and a sawed off shotgun.

Following the raid, Walsh was charged with cultivation of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

If you have been charged with serious drug crimes, contact Rivas Law Firm to discuss possible defenses with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer!

After crashing into three other vehicles, a woman from San Carlos Park was placed under arrest by law enforcement. 

Police say that 23 year old Judith Ponce of the 18000 block of Doral Drive was charged with DUI (driving under the influence).  She was also charged with leaving the scene of an accident and four counts of property damage.

Police reports from the Lee County Sheriff's office indicate that officers were call to the scene of the accident.  When they arrived, they found a 1995 Toyota Camry parked at a house on Haitian Drive.  Family members told police that Ponce had been driving.

When police questioned Ponce, she said she rounded the corner at 30 MPH and lost control of her vehicle.  However, she failed three field sobriety tests and was not able to comprehend instructions for the one-leg stand test.

Ponce agreed to a breath test and her result was 0.058%.  In Florida, a person is presumed to be intoxicated if he or she has a breath test result of 0.08%.

Charged with DUI in Orlando?  If so, contact Rivas Law Firm to set up a consultation with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.

Florida State prosecutors announced that they will seek the death penalty in the case of three men accused of kidnapping and murdering Vincent Binder, a Florida State University student. A notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Peter Hughes, Kentrell Johnson, and Quentin Truehill was filed by Seventh Circuit State Attorney R.J. Larizza.

Binder disappeared on his walk home from a friend's house in Tallahassee on April 2. It was a month later before his body was found off I-95 near St. Augustine. The three men accused of Binder's murder were initially arrested in Miami on the charge of kidnapping Binder. Police then found receipts in the stolen truck the men were driving that showed the men had used Binder's debit card along the road. After Binder's body was found, murder charges were laid against all three.

If you have been charged with a federal crime, such as kidnapping, an Orlando criminal defense lawyer from the Rivas Law Firm can help.  Contact us now!

SWAT and narcotics officers were preparing to search a Lincoln residence when other officers stopped a vehicle carrying two of the house's residents. One of those residents was Jerry Brown, 49. After getting permission from Brown's roommate, officers searched the vehicle, house, and Brown and discovered a handgun and nearly 600 pills, a narcotics investigator reported.

440 of the pills are believed to be Oxycontin and Hydromorphone, both painkillers, and 141 have not yet been identified. The remaining five pills are believed to be Alprazolam, an anti-anxiety medication. Brown allowed himself to be pat down and had a bottle of pills on him. A .22-caliber semi-automatic handgun was found in the house. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

If you have been charged with a drug-related crime or weapon crimes, it is important that you discuss your case with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.  Contact the Rivas Law Firm now!

A multi-agency probe that has lasted for months has resulted in the arrests of 172 people, including two doctors, and the seizure of more than 20,000 prescription pills. The probe, called "Operation Pain Killer" targeted street-level dealers and doctors who are involved in peddling prescription narcotics. 49 of those arrested live in Lake County, FL, and others lived in Orange, Oseola, and Seminole County.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald Bailey reported, "I'm pleased that this investigation neutralized numerous distribution points in Central Florida. There will be follow-up operations to attack this lethal supply chain." Most of those arrested were charged with trafficking Schedule II narcotics. The drugs seized included oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam. The two doctors arrested operated pain management clinics. The probe began on January 1 and the final round of arrests was made on June 2.

If you have been charged with drug crimes in Orlando, contact the Rivas Law Firm to schedule a time to meet with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.

Police cracked down on B2T (Bottom to Top), a Florida bikini bar, arresting seven dancers, three managers, a promoter, and a DJ. The dancers reportedly broke city codes by removing their tops and in some cases their bottoms and engaging in prostitution with the bar's clientele.

Undercover officers reported rampant drug use in the club in addition to the illicit sexual activities that occurred in cubicles inside the club. The DJ was arrested and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, and he was also carrying a butterfly knife. Of the 30 dancers, most were not charged with any crimes and were allowed to go home. Locals have called to complain about the club 40 times since it opened earlier this year, typically complaining about noise.

If you have been charges with a sexual offense, such as prostitution, you need to contact the Rivas Law Firm now and arrange a consultation with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

Hery Krispiyanto, 30, a bartender on a Carnival Cruise Line ship is set to appear in an Orlando court on the charge of raping a 14-year-old girl in April 2009. The girl told her mother in August who then told the FBI that Krispiyanto had raped her. Krispiyanto initially denied the accusation, but after failing a polygraph exam, he admitted to having sex with the girl.

The girl and her parents had reportedly become acquainted with Krispiyanto before the sex crime occures. The girl told investigators that one night when she was alone on the upper deck of the ship, Krispiyanto walked up behind her, grabbed her, and pulled her into a nearby employee-only room. Krispiyanto then reportedly began to touch the girl inappropriately. She tried to stop him and tried to fight back, but Krispiyanto proceeded to rape her, according to the criminal complaint. Krispiyanto is being held on a single charge of a sex crime with a minor at Seminole County Jail.

If you have been charged with a sex crime or other serious criminal offense, you should discuss your case with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer from the Rivas Law Firm.  Contact us now!

John Harper, 46, was found guilty of attempted voluntary manslaughter after he set a man on fire as a result of a dispute over money. Harper is a habitual felony offender, and as such he faces up to ten years in prison.

Last September, Harper and Fultz became involved in a dispute over money. Fultz was hit in the head and face and knocked to the ground by Harper before Fultz agreed to take Harper to the homeless camp at which Fultz lived to give Harper the money he owed him. It was at the homeless camp that Harper was seen carrying a fuel can while Fultz was seen running with his clothes on fire. Fultz suffered first, second, and third degree burns over thirty percent of his body. Harper is set to be sentenced on July 13, assistant State Attorney Christopher Kelly reported.

A serious crime requires a serious defense. Get in touch with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer today if you have been charged with a serious offense such as manslaughter.  Contact the Rivas Law Firm now!

Orlando Police Officer Rod Johnson was patrolling West Orlando when he saw Lamont Snell out front of the Lewis Apartments on West Church Street acting suspiciously. Officer Johnson parked his unmarked police car a short distance away to try to "spook" Snell into leaving the area.

It was then that Snell allegedly removed the lid of a nearby trashcan, pulled out a handgun, slipped it in his pocket, and walked directly toward the car. Snell couldn't have seen Johnson through the darkly tinted windows. "He either thought I was going to rob him or that he was going to sell me some dope and then rob me," Johnson reported. Johnson then radioed for back up before exiting his car with gun drawn and telling Snell to drop his gun and get on the ground.

Snell reportedly ran from Officer Johnson but only made it a block before he was caught. Snell has been previously convicted of five felonies and in this case has been charged with carrying a concealed firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and resisting arrest without violence.

If you have been charged with a theft crime such as robbery, contact an Orlando criminal defense lawyer today.

A pedestrian was killed when he was struck by a driver who then fled the scene in Fort Myers. The Fort Myers Police are searching for the driver that killed 27-year-old Joshua Pollock. It is unclear whether Pollock was attempting to cross the street or if he was walking down the middle of SR-82 near Omni Lane.

Pollock was struck by two cars around 11:20pm. The first car that struck Pollock fled the scene. The second tried to swerve to avoid Pollock but hit him, reports say. The driver of the second car stayed on the scene with Pollock until Emergency Medical Services arrived. Pollock was transported by EMS to Lee Memorial Hospital where he died. Any information that may lead to the identity of the driver who fled the scene is being sought by Fort Myers Police.

If you have been charged with committing a hit and run, contact an Orlando criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

A man called the police after two women claiming to sell magazines stole his wallet off of his counter after he let the women into his home. 22-year-old Jessica Rosenengal of Florida and 21-year-old Starla Harjo of Oklahoma were arrested a short distance from the crime. They admitted to stealing the wallet and said they had thrown it away. The wallet was later located where the women said they had thrown it, according to police.

The two young women have been charged with grand larceny and peddling without a permit. Harjo was also charged with possession of marijuana. Both women were arraigned and held on $7,000 bail. Police Lt. Thomas Gerace advised the public, "Always ask to see a permit to solicit before dealing with anyone selling door to door," and "Never let a stranger into your home."

If you have been charged with a criminal offense such as a theft crime or a drug crime, contact the Rivas Law Firm and talk with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

47-year-old Jim Greer, the former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, was arrested for reportedly running a scam that defrauded the GOP. Greer has been charged with one count of money laundering, one count of organized fraud, and four counts of grand theft.

Greer served as the chairman of the Florida GOP from January 2007 to February 2010. Florida Governor Charlie Crist personally picked Greer for the job, and also called for the investigation that led to his arrest. Greer allegedly set up a company called Victory Strategies to help him raise funds for the GOP of Florida, but then pocketed the money raised. Victory Strategies raised $199,254 from February to October 2009 according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Greer was paid $125,161 of that while keeping his ownership interest hidden.

If you have been accused of a white collar crime that could cause damage to your business and personal reputation, contact the Rivas Law Firm and set up a time to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

The Osceola County Jail is in the process of receiving $4 million worth of security improvements. Over Memorial Day weekend, an accused smuggler managed to sneak in six pieces of crack cocaine which weren't discovered until four days after he was booked into the jail. Last year the guards managed to let a 9mm pistol slip by them, and earlier this year, tools for an escape.

Jail officials commented that they did not know how many other cases of smuggling had been discovered since January and would need to do at least eight hours of research to discover if any other drugs had been sneaked past guards in recent months. The jail's interim Director Kim Bogart has ordered an investigation to determine how the drugs were smuggled in.

If you have been accused of a drug crime in Orlando, contact the Rivas Law Firm to schedule an initial consultation with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.  We can help you determine the best course of action.

Florida Highway Patrol troopers reported that Mark Dhanraj, 26, rear-ended and ran over Keith Hess, 44, who was riding his bicycle. Hess was found lying dead on the southbound side of Conway Road shortly after the accident. According to the troopers, Dhanraj tried to drive away from the accident but crashed his car about a mile away in some woods. A witness, Alex Jimenez, reportedly went to help Dhanraj, who then tried to pay Jimenez $200 to help him get away.

The responding troopers issued Dhanraj a sobriety test, which he failed. His silver BMW had its tail lights and windshield smashed, linking him to the death of Keith Hess. Dhanraj has been charged with DUI and manslaughter.

If you have been charged with a serious criminal defense including driving under the influence or manslaughter, contact the Rivas Law Firm to speak with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer today.  We would welcome the opportunity to listen to your side of the story.

Clearwater police have hit the streets in a prostitution sting aimed at both prostitutes and those who solicit their services. The operation, called "Operation Cheap Trick," has resulted in the arrest of twenty-five people over the course of two days. Five of the arrests carry felony charges.

Chief Anthony Holloway said in a statement, "The purpose of this two-fold operation was to address the problem from both ends. The message is simple when it comes to prostitution: not in Clearwater."

During the operation, male officers went undercover to target prostitutes, and female officers posed as prostitutes to target male solicitors. The operation was focused around the East Gateway area of Clearwater. Officers identify this area as the section of the city between Drew and Court Streets, bordered by Missouri Avenue to the west and Highland Avenue to the east.

If you have been charged with a sex crime, contact the Rivas Law Group to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney and discuss your legal options.

A van collided with a school bus last week, injuring two people in the bus in Brownsville, FL.

A witness to the accident says that the van sideswiped the bus when the van was turning the corner from Green Street onto West Avery. "I ran up there to see if anyone was hurt then called 911," the witness said. "People do at least 40 [mph] around this corner every day. It's dangerous." The witness was standing outside of his home when the accident occurred.

Two people were injured in the accident, the bus driver's assistant and a high school student. The extent of their injuries was not immediately apparent. Emergency medical services took the two injured persons to Sacred Heart Hospital, and the responding authorities arrested the driver of the van. It is suspected that the driver of the van was under the influence of alcohol.

If you have been involved in an accident and have been charged with an offense like DUI or reckless driving, an Orlando criminal defense attorney from the Rivas Law Group can defend you.  Contact our law office to schedule an initial consultation.

Authorities in the Bahamas have charged two tourists from Florida with the murder of a Jamaican man. The man who was killed, Clive Tomlinson was fatally shot early on Wednesday in Bimini. Authorities believe that Tomlinson was killed as part of a drug deal gone wrong.

The two men charged with the murder are 27-year-old Daniel Andres Ayo and 39-year-old Luis Mendez. A third man, 43-year-old Florida man Jorge Luis Paez was also allegedly a part of the incident, but was not charged in the murder. Paez was, however, charged with drug possession and weapons charges. Police say that the three men were carrying 1.6 ounces of marijuana at the time of the incident with the intent to sell.

None of the men entered a plea during their initial hearing, and their attorneys declined to comment.

If you have been charged with a serious criminal offense, you are entitled to a lawyer who will protect your rights. Contact the Rivas Law Group to consult with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer to discuss your options if you have been charged with a crime, such as murder.

Josh Hunter, a former high school teacher and football coach is currently on trial for a car accident which occurred last year that resulted in the death of Hunter's friend and colleague, Doug Garrity.

Hunter was believed to be driving when his F-150 flipped on I-75 after Hunter lost control of the car, but there is currently no hard evidence to prove that Hunter was the driver. Hunter was driving under the influence at the time of the accident with a blood alcohol level of .211. His older brother, who is currently in jail, was also in the car, but refuses to testify. Another man was in the car as well, but insists that he was too incapacitated to remember who had been driving. The group had left a bowling alley and barbeque together.

Without hard evidence that Hunter was driving, it is unlikely that he will be convicted.

If you have been charged with a serious offense such as DUI, contact an Orlando criminal defense attorney who can help get you through this difficult time.

DNA evidence has linked a 23-year-old Florida man to a rape that occurred in 2008 according to Ocean City police. The man, Lorenzo Ivan Garcia-Moreno is currently in a Florida prison for a burglary that he committed in Fort Lauderdale.

On May 24, 2008, a 26-year-old Pennsylvania woman was followed from a bar called Seacrets and attacked. According to police reports, the man fled after attacking the woman. He allegedly ran to the beach and jumped in the ocean. He was later found semiconscious several blocks away. The man then attacked two more people before fleeing again, according to the report.

Police were able to match DNA evidence taken from the scene to Garcia-Moreno earlier this month. Garcia-Moreno is charged with first and second-degree rape, attempted rape, assault, sex offense, kidnapping, and reckless endangerment.

The Rivas Law Firm works to ensure that those charged with serious crimes receive a fair trial and defense. If you have been charged with a sex crime, contact an Orlando criminal defense lawyer today to discuss your legal options.