A computer solicitation charge can destroy your life before you ever step into a courtroom. Florida Statute 847.0135 makes it a serious felony to use any electronic device to communicate about sexual conduct with a child—or with someone you believe is a child. That distinction matters because most of these cases arise from online sting operations where no actual child exists.

At The Brancato Law Firm P.A., we defend clients accused of internet solicitation throughout Tampa and Hillsborough County—especially cases where messages were misunderstood, manipulated, or taken out of context by law enforcement. As a former Major Crimes Division attorney with the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, I understand how prosecutors build these cases and how to challenge them.

The Two Offenses Under F.S. 847.0135(3)

Florida law creates two separate crimes under the same statute, depending on who you allegedly contacted:

Elements of §847.0135(3)(a): Soliciting a Child

The prosecution must prove three elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. You knowingly used a computer, phone, or internet service to contact the alleged victim
2. The alleged victim was a child, or you believed they were a child
3. You attempted to persuade or entice that person into unlawful sexual activity

The law explicitly states that the involvement of an undercover officer is not a defense. However, I can still challenge intent, entrapment, and the authenticity of the evidence—issues that often determine whether these cases stand up in court.

Elements of §847.0135(3)(b): Soliciting a Parent or Guardian

To convict under this section, the State must prove:

1. You used an electronic device to contact a person you believed was a parent, guardian, or custodian
2. You solicited or attempted to solicit that adult to allow or facilitate illegal sexual activity involving a child

These cases frequently originate in online escort or prostitution stings where law enforcement shifts the conversation to mention a minor late in the chat. What began as a conversation with an adult can suddenly become a felony solicitation prosecution.

Penalties for Computer Solicitation

Conviction leads to mandatory internet restrictions and lifetime consequences affecting housing, employment, and travel.

How These Charges Arise in Tampa Bay

Most defendants are arrested after online sting operations coordinated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department, or regional Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task forces. The typical pattern:

• Officers post adult-themed ads on dating apps or escort sites
• After initial contact, the “adult” introduces the mention of a minor
• Investigators continue the conversation to build evidence of intent
• Arrest occurs when the target travels to meet or continues soliciting

Once the conversation shifts to include a minor, prosecutors may stack additional charges including traveling to meet a minor (F.S. 847.0135(4)), use of a two-way communication device (F.S. 934.215), and attempted human trafficking.

Defense Strategies in Computer Solicitation Cases

Why Early Representation Matters

Computer solicitation cases move quickly. Search warrants, chat extractions, and forensic downloads happen early—often before the defense sees the evidence. I immediately demand and review the complete electronic evidence, consult with forensic experts to locate missing data, identify signs of entrapment or misconduct, and protect clients from unnecessary media exposure.

Early legal action can reduce the risk of arrest, limit evidence exposure, or even stop charges before they are filed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Accused of Computer Solicitation in Tampa?

If you are accused of solicitation of a child using a computer in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, contact The Brancato Law Firm immediately. Early legal action can make the difference between charges filed and charges declined.

I personally review every chat log, forensic extraction, and investigative report. Your case receives direct attention—not passed to junior attorneys.

Call (813) 727-7159 for a Confidential Consultation

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602

Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties

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• Travelling to Meet a Minor in Tampa
• Human Trafficking Attorney in Tampa
• Attorney for Vigilante Predator Catchers in Tampa
• Messaged a Minor Online? What to Do Next
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If you have been arrested—or suspect you are being investigated—for human trafficking in Tampa Bay, you may feel like your life is over. The shock, shame, and fear that follow are overwhelming. But being accused is not the same as being guilty. Most trafficking prosecutions in Tampa Bay arise from online sting operations—not real trafficking rings. And many sting operations are built on tactics that can be challenged.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., I have defended clients facing human trafficking charges in Tampa Bay—including a case that went to trial where my client received probation instead of the prison sentence the State demanded. For over 25 years, I have focused on sex crimes defense, including practicing in an elite sex crimes unit before founding this firm.

The Reality Behind Tampa’s “Human Trafficking” Arrests

Most trafficking arrests in Tampa Bay follow a predictable pattern:

1. A man contacts what he believes is an adult escort online
2. The photos are of adult women—often officers themselves, photographed when over 18
3. The conversation turns sexual, then a bait-and-switch occurs
4. The officer claims to have “younger girls”—typically “14 or 15”
5. Even if the target backs out or never travels, charges are filed

By the time the “minor” is introduced, many targets have been drinking, using substances, or emotionally drawn in. These are life-changing accusations based on words and digital data—not real victims.

Charges That Arise from Trafficking Stings

Prosecutors frequently stack multiple charges from a single sting operation. Conviction on any of these offenses typically requires sex offender registration.

Defense Strategies in Trafficking Sting Cases

Timing Matters: The Earlier You Act, the More Options You Have

If you contact my firm immediately after arrest—or even before charges are filed—I can sometimes intervene directly with the State Attorney’s Office to prevent charges from being filed at all. Once a formal filing occurs, your name, reputation, and freedom are at risk.

Time matters. Early action allows me to shape the narrative before prosecutors do.

Why You Need a Specialist—Not Just a Criminal Defense Attorney

Human trafficking cases demand experience, precision, and insight into how law enforcement operates online. Before founding this firm, I led an elite sex crimes unit and trained attorneys on these very tactics. That experience now drives my defense of those unfairly accused.

Where other attorneys see guilt, I see constitutional violations, forensic errors, and entrapment. My work often exposes misconduct so subtle that only a sex crimes specialist would catch it.

Discretion, Dignity, and a Way Forward

This accusation does not define who you are. People from every walk of life—business owners, veterans, teachers, students—find themselves caught in these operations. I handle every case with absolute discretion and complete confidentiality. Your story stays between you and your attorney.

My goal is simple: to ensure this moment does not define the rest of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged even if no minor was involved?

Yes. Law enforcement is prohibited from using real minors, so they pretend to be one. Under Florida law, belief alone is enough for a solicitation charge. That is why I focus on exposing inducement, manipulation, and lack of intent.

What if I backed out or said I changed my mind?

If you renounced the plan before any crime occurred—and not out of fear of arrest but because you genuinely changed your mind—this can form a complete defense under Florida’s renunciation statute.

What if I never traveled to meet anyone?

You can still face solicitation charges, but lack of travel is strong evidence that no substantial step toward committing a crime occurred. I use that to argue lack of intent or completion.

What if law enforcement showed suggestive images to entice me?

That behavior may support dismissal for outrageous government conduct or bolster an entrapment defense. Florida courts have repeatedly condemned tactics that manufacture criminal behavior rather than detect it.

What if I was not serious—I just wanted to learn more or report it?

Intent is key. If you were curious, conflicted, or planning to report it, that must be proven through messages, timing, and tone. I use those details to dismantle the prosecution’s theory.

Facing Human Trafficking Charges in Tampa?

If you have been arrested or believe you are being investigated for human trafficking in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. now. All trafficking charges are handled directly by me—not passed to associates.

Call (813) 727-7159 for a Confidential Consultation

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602

Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties

Related Articles:

• Tampa Sex Crimes Attorney
• Travelling to Meet a Minor in Tampa
• Solicitation of a Child Using a Computer
• Attorney for Vigilante Predator Catchers in Tampa
• Messaged a Minor Online? What to Do Next
• Caught in a Tampa Sex Sting? We Can Help
• Tampa Escorts and Prostitution Stings
• Tampa Entrapment Defense

If law enforcement arrested you—or you believe you are under investigation—for traveling to meet a minor in Tampa, you need to act immediately. These cases typically begin with undercover sting operations where officers pose as minors online. Even before the State Attorney files charges, the damage to your future may already be underway. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we act quickly to protect your rights and your freedom.

I have over 25 years of criminal defense experience and led an elite sex crimes unit before founding this firm. I understand how law enforcement builds these cases—and how to challenge them.

Elements the State Must Prove

To convict you of traveling to meet a minor under F.S. 847.0135(4), the prosecution must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt:

The law explicitly states that the involvement of an undercover officer posing as a minor is not a defense. However, each element creates an opportunity to challenge the State’s case.

Penalties for Traveling to Meet a Minor

Florida prosecutors treat these cases with zero tolerance. You need a defense attorney who can expose the weaknesses in their evidence.

How These Cases Arise: The Bait-and-Switch Pattern

Most traveling to meet a minor arrests in Tampa Bay follow a predictable pattern:

1. Law enforcement posts what appears to be a legitimate adult advertisement on an escort or dating website
2. The listing features an adult profile—sometimes using real photos of adults, or old photos of the undercover officer
3. You begin a conversation genuinely believing you are speaking with an adult
4. Partway through the conversation, the “adult” introduces the idea of a minor—typically “14 or 15”
5. The conversation continues under law enforcement control and recording
6. Arrest occurs when you travel toward the meeting location

This shift from adult to minor is not accidental—it is a tactic designed to create the appearance of a crime that did not exist when the communication began.

Defense Strategies

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged if I was talking to an undercover officer, not a real minor?

Yes. Florida law explicitly allows prosecution when the “minor” is actually an undercover officer. The key question is whether you believed you were communicating with a minor. However, I can challenge your intent and raise entrapment defenses when police tactics cross the line.

What if the conversation started with someone I thought was an adult?

This is the bait-and-switch pattern common in Tampa Bay stings. The fact that you initially believed you were speaking with an adult is central to an entrapment defense. I analyze when and how the “minor” was introduced to determine if law enforcement manufactured the crime.

What if I changed my mind and did not complete the meeting?

If you genuinely renounced the plan before any crime occurred—not out of fear of arrest but because you changed your mind—this can be a complete defense under Florida’s renunciation statute. Additionally, lack of completion may support a lack-of-intent argument.

What counts as “traveling” under the statute?

Any movement toward the meeting location can satisfy this element—driving, walking, or taking transportation. You do not need to arrive. However, the State must prove you were actually traveling to the meeting, not simply traveling in that general direction for other reasons.

Is entrapment a valid defense in these cases?

Yes. Entrapment applies when police induce you to commit a crime you were not predisposed to commit. The bait-and-switch pattern—starting as an adult conversation and shifting to a minor—is particularly susceptible to this defense. See my Tampa Entrapment Defense page for more information.

Facing Traveling to Meet a Minor Charges in Tampa?

If you are facing accusations or believe a sting operation targeted you in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, call The Brancato Law Firm immediately. I personally handle every sex crimes case—your defense is never outsourced.

Call (813) 727-7159 for a Confidential Consultation

Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602

Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties

Related Articles:

• Tampa Sex Crimes Attorney
• Solicitation of a Child Using a Computer
• Human Trafficking Attorney in Tampa
• Attorney for Vigilante Predator Catchers in Tampa
• Messaged a Minor Online? What to Do Next
• Caught in a Tampa Sex Sting? We Can Help
• Tampa Escorts and Prostitution Stings
• Tampa Entrapment Defense

If you are reading this, a simple online chat may have turned into a moment of pure panic. You might have just realized the person you were messaging on a dating app or social media is underage. Their profile looked different, they lied about their age, or the conversation took a turn you never intended. Now you are terrified of what comes next.

You have every right to be. In Florida, a conversation is enough.

I am Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato, founder of The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.. For over 25 years, I have practiced sex crimes defense, handling the most complex and sensitive cases in the Tampa Bay area. I have seen how these investigations begin, how police build their evidence, and most importantly, how to mount an effective defense. What you do in the next few hours and days is critical.

Your First Five Steps: What to Do Immediately

These cases move quickly and quietly. Acting decisively can protect your rights and your future.

Are You Under Investigation? Red Flags to Watch For

Law enforcement investigations into online sex crimes often happen in secret. You may be a target and not even know it. Here are common signs:

If any of these have occurred, the time to act is now. The State may already be building its case.

Penalties for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Florida

How an Experienced Defense Attorney Can Help

The prosecution will use chat logs, images, and your own words to secure a conviction. However, I can challenge their case by:

• Investigating for police entrapment — Did an undercover officer improperly induce you to commit a crime you otherwise would not have?
• Challenging the evidence — Were the messages obtained legally? Can the State prove it was you behind the screen?
• Negotiating with prosecutors — Early intervention can sometimes lead to reduced charges or prevent formal arrest.
• Preparing a proactive defense — If arrest is inevitable, I prepare you for the process and build a strong trial strategy from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be arrested just for messages if I never met anyone?

Yes. Under Florida Statute 847.0135(3), the messages themselves can be sufficient for prosecution. No in-person meeting is required. The crime is complete upon soliciting or enticing a minor—or someone believed to be a minor—through electronic communication.

Should I delete the messages and my profile?

No. Deleting evidence can lead to additional charges for obstruction or tampering. It also looks like consciousness of guilt to prosecutors. Additionally, you may destroy evidence that supports your defense—such as signs of entrapment.

What if I thought they were an adult?

This is relevant to your defense, but it may not be sufficient on its own. Florida law focuses on whether you believed you were communicating with a minor at the time of the alleged solicitation. The full context of the conversation matters.

What if it was actually an undercover officer?

Most of these cases involve undercover officers, not real minors. Florida law explicitly allows prosecution even when no actual child was involved. However, this opens the door to entrapment defenses if law enforcement improperly induced your conduct.

How soon should I contact an attorney?

Immediately. Do not wait for a knock on the door. An arrest warrant may already be in process. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.

Do Not Let Fear Paralyze You

Feeling isolated and terrified is normal. But you are not alone, and this situation is not hopeless. An accusation does not have to become a conviction. The choices you make right now will define your future.

Do not wait for an arrest. Call The Brancato Law Firm now for a confidential consultation.

Call (813) 727-7159 — Anytime

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602

Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties

Related Resources:

• Tampa Sex Crimes Attorney
• Travelling to Meet a Minor in Tampa
• Human Trafficking Attorney in Tampa
• Attorney for Vigilante Predator Catchers in Tampa
• Caught in a Tampa Sex Sting? We Can Help
• Tampa Escorts and Prostitution Stings
• Tampa Entrapment Defense

Entrapment is a complete defense to criminal charges in Florida. When law enforcement creates a crime that would not have occurred without their inducement, the Constitution protects you. However, proving entrapment requires an entrapment defense Tampa attorney who understands both objective and subjective standards.

I am Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato. For over 25 years, I have defended clients in Tampa targeted by overzealous law enforcement tactics. As the former Chief Operations Officer of the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, I have challenged undercover operations and confidential informant schemes. Consequently, I understand exactly how to expose improper police conduct. My firm, the Brancato Law Firm, P.A. can help you in your entrapment case.

What Is Entrapment Under Florida Law?

Entrapment occurs when police officers persuade, trick, or coerce someone into committing a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Under Florida Statute 777.201, using an entrapment defense typically means admitting to the charged conduct. However, you argue that law enforcement’s undue influence was the sole reason for your actions.

This defense requires careful strategy. You are not claiming, “I didn’t do it.” You are claiming, “I only did it because law enforcement made it happen”.

Two Types of Entrapment in Florida Courts

Florida recognizes two distinct forms of entrapment. Each has different legal standards.

Objective Entrapment: Due Process Violations

Objective entrapment focuses on law enforcement’s behavior rather than your history. If police conduct was so outrageous that it violated your due process rights under the Florida Constitution, the court must dismiss the charges. This dismissal happens regardless of your predisposition.

Florida courts have found objective entrapment in specific cases:

• State v. Glosson: Offering significant financial rewards to confidential informants to create crimes.
• State v. Williams: Police manufacturing illegal drugs to use in a sting operation near a school.
• Farley v. State: Government agents creating illegal content specifically to lure and entrap an individual.
• Curry v. State: A confidential informant developing a romantic relationship to facilitate crimes.

Subjective Entrapment: Predisposition

Subjective entrapment under Florida Statute 777.201 asks whether you were inclined to commit the crime before police involvement. If you had no prior inclination and were induced by police, entrapment applies.

When evaluating subjective entrapment, Tampa courts consider:

• Your prior criminal record (or lack thereof).
• Any reluctance you showed to commit the crime.
• Whether the initial idea came from law enforcement.
• The nature and degree of inducement used.

In State v. Finno, the court found entrapment when police initiated a loan-sharking scheme and trained defendants who had no prior involvement. Similarly, in Demare v. State, the court ruled against law enforcement for inducing a man into online chats by fabricating ages after initial contact.

Proving Entrapment: The Munoz Test

Florida courts apply a three-part test from Munoz v. State to evaluate entrapment claims.

1. Inducement: The defendant must show that law enforcement persuaded, encouraged, or coerced them into committing the offense.
2. Predisposition: If inducement is shown, the burden shifts to the State. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was ready to commit the crime before police involvement.
3. Jury Decision: If the State cannot prove predisposition, the court may dismiss charges. If evidence exists, the jury decides.

Common Law Enforcement Tactics

Law enforcement uses various tactics to induce criminal conduct. When these tactics cross the line, entrapment may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Entrapment

What is entrapment under Florida law?

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement persuades or coerces someone into committing a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Under Florida Statute 777.201, if police induced the crime and you were not predisposed, it is a complete defense.

What is the difference between objective and subjective entrapment?

Objective entrapment focuses on police conduct. If their behavior violated due process, charges are dismissed. Subjective entrapment focuses on whether you were predisposed to commit the crime.

Who has the burden of proof?

Initially, you must present evidence of inducement. Then, the burden shifts to the State. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were predisposed to commit the crime before police involvement.

Does entrapment apply to online sting operations?

Yes. Entrapment defenses are frequently raised in internet sting operations. Cases like Demare v. State show that aggressive inducement tactics or age fabrication can constitute entrapment.

Challenging Police Tactics Throughout Tampa Bay

I defend clients facing charges from undercover operations and sting operations throughout the Tampa Bay region. My office is located just two blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse.

I handle entrapment defense cases in:

• Hillsborough County: Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City.
• Pinellas County: St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo.
• Pasco County: New Port Richey, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes.

Related Articles

• Caught in a Tampa Sex Sting? We can help.
• Tampa Escorts and Prostitution Stings.
• Solicitation of a Child Using a Computer.
• Tampa Human Trafficking Defense Attorney.

Were You Targeted by Overzealous Police Tactics?

If you believe law enforcement induced you into committing a crime, entrapment may be your defense. The difference between conviction and acquittal often depends on your attorney’s ability to prove lack of predisposition.

I offer confidential consultations to people facing charges arising from undercover operations. I will evaluate the contact patterns and determine whether entrapment applies to your case.

Call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. now.

Phone: (813) 727-7159

Address: 620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602