If you have been accused of a criminal offense in Florida while wearing a bulletproof vest, then you may face further criminal charges for possession of the bulletproof vest.
According to Florida statutes, a bulletproof vest is a:
“ … bullet-resistant soft body armor … which shall mean at least 7 layers of bullet-resistant material providing protection from 3 shots of 158-grain lead ammunition fired from a .38 caliber handgun at a velocity of 850 feet per second.”
Florida statutes go on to say that no person may possess a bulletproof vest while committing, or attempting to commit:
- murder;
- sexual battery;
- robbery;
- burglary;
- arson;
- aggravated assault;
- aggravated battery;
- kidnapping;
- escape;
- breaking and entering (with intent to commit a felony);
- a criminal gang-related offense (under chapter 874);
- a controlled substance offense (under chapter 893); or
- aircraft piracy.
A violation of these laws may result in a third degree felony conviction. A conviction of a third degree felony is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation and a $5,000 fine.
If you have been charged with possession of a bulletproof vest while committing (or attempting to commit) a crime in Florida, then you should get the legal help of a Miami criminal defense lawyer.
A Miami criminal defense lawyer can investigate your alleged possession of a bulletproof vest in Florida. If the charge cannot be substantiated or if there is some discrepancy with the evidence that was gathered, then you may be able to avoid a serious criminal conviction.
Contacting a Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in South Florida, your legal team is your best defense. Contact the Miami criminal defense lawyer team at Falk & Ross to discuss your case – 1-877-663-5110.