Today, over 65% of all adults in the United States use social media on a regular basis.
This is a number that continues to grow. Social media is not integrated into many parts of your day and has become ingrained on society. However, with this extremely powerful communication platform, many questions come up about how it is used and who is allowed to use it.
Sex Offenders and Social Media
An extremely hot topic for many pundits, lawyers and lawmakers is whether or not convicted sex offenders should be allowed to access and use various social media platforms.
After all, these sites are a hot bed for predators and sex offenders who are trolling for their next victim. As a result, it makes sense that the court would want to keep these individuals off these social platforms when they are released from jail.
The problem is, courts have determined that banning a convicted sex offender from social media is a violation of their first amendment rights. It is also believed that this action can slow their reentry into society.
Even with this information, there are several states that have passed various laws to ban convicted sex offenders from using social media; however, unfortunately, the majority of these laws wound up being overturned in court.
Florida’s Take on Social Media Use for Sex Offenders
Right now, Florida doesn’t have any type of ban on social media for registered Florida sex offenders. However, the Florida has implemented a few rules for these individuals to follow.
For example, judges have the right to mandate certain rules for using the internet while the individual is still under supervision. In most cases this includes:
- Providing their login information for all social accounts to their supervisor
- Submitting to checks and monitoring of how they use their social accounts
However, critics of this particular system make the claim that this is not effective because it is extremely difficult to track what sex offenders are doing online and what accounts they have setup. After all, it is extremely easy to create accounts with false names and those in law enforcement would have no idea this had been done.
The fact is, finding a balance between public safety and freedom of speech is a work in progress for the state of Florida. Lawmakers are having to work diligently to weigh each factor and find a solution that everyone is able to live with.
Also Read: Assault and Battery Charges in Florida: Important Information to Know
The Sexual Predator Dilemma in Florida
There are many convicted sexual predators throughout the state of Florida. It is difficult in many cases to manage these individuals, especially when it comes to their online activities. As a result, it is best for parents to be diligent and protect their children and for children to be taught how to use the internet and social media safely.
If you are convicted of a crime, then you may also need help. Contact the Hansen Law Firm to learn more about the rights you have and how an experienced Miami assault lawyer can help.
