Last Updated on July 7, 2023

The distribution of intimate images without consent in Florida is a topic that is being brought up all too often. With the rise of social media messaging applications, scenarios like these are happening all over Florida. Protecting yourself from intimate image abuse is crucial in this new digital age. This blog post will discuss the different rights and protections offered to victims of this crime.

Understanding the Laws in Florida

Florida law strictly prohibits the distribution of intimate images without consent, which is known as “revenge porn.” The act of revenge porn can take many forms, but it is typically perpetrated when sexual abuse is combined with digital abuse. Digital Abuse usually looks like forms of stalking, bullying, coercion, and possessiveness. These are all early warning signs of online crimes like revenge porn.

According to Florida Statutes Section 784.049 and Statute Section 836.05, it is a first-degree misdemeanor offense to knowingly distribute any explicit image of a person without consent. This applies even if the person distributing the image was not the original source of the image and may be charged with a crime even if it was a one-time distribution.

Legal Consequences for Non-Consensual Image Distribution in Florida

Anyone knowingly sharing intimate images without consent in Florida may face criminal charges and penalties. These can include imprisonment, monetary fines, and probation. Distribution of intimate images without consent can also result in a civil lawsuit where compensation can be paid in damages to the victim.

If found guilty, the convicted person may be required to undergo mandatory counseling or community service. As you can see, sharing intimate images without consent can lead to severe legal consequences. Below we listed an example of this type of crime.

Case Example: In this chilling case Steven Dexter Gangoo, from Broward County, Florida, was charged with committing the crime of revenge porn involving several minors that were victimized. His aim was to receive explicit content from the victims, then threaten to release it to friends and family if they did not comply with his demands.

Gangoo reached out to his victims via social media applications, where he would target underage girls. He was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison and will follow over 25 years on probation once his time is served. This case highlights the severity of committing this crime and the need for social media applications to crack down on their safety features.

Rights and Protections for Victims in Florida

If you are the victim of non-consensual image distribution in Florida, you have certain rights and protections. You can file for an injunction to stop the distribution of the images or videos, which orders the perpetrator to cease sharing the content and remove it from online platforms. Florida also has a cyberstalking law that can help protect you if you are being harassed or threatened online. By speaking up and taking legal action, you can hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.

You can also contact third-party companies that work with local attorneys in handling these types of cases. At Cyber Investigation, our team of trained professionals are experts in tracking down your content and getting it removed. With proper documentation, you can seek justice against these online criminals. Speak with an agent today to start building your case.

Summary

Distributing intimate images without consent is an all-too-common issue with serious consequences. Understanding the laws can help prevent non-consensual image distribution and hold perpetrators accountable. If you are a victim of intimate image abuse in Florida, knowing your rights and the protections afforded to you is crucial. By speaking up and acting, you can help prevent yourself and others from the harmful effects of the distribution of intimate images without consent in Florida.

If you or someone you know needs help with Instagram nude blackmail or any online crimes, contact Cyber Investigation immediately. Our team is available 24/7 with our sextortion hotline. Do not wait to talk to an agent today!