Key Provisions of the Law

To begin with, the law revises several statutes and introduces new sections:

• Threats or Harassment (§ 836.12, F.S.)
  A person who threatens or harasses officials such as judges, clerks, or assistants can now face criminal charges.
• Tampering with Court Officials (§ 918.12, F.S.)
  Using intimidation, misleading conduct, or bribery to sway court officials qualifies as tampering. Depending on the case, penalties range from a third-degree felony to a life felony.
• Harassing Court Officials (§ 918.12, F.S.)
  When harassment prevents jurors or officials from fulfilling their duties, the conduct may be charged as a misdemeanor or elevated to felony levels.
• Retaliation Against Court Officials (§ 918.125, F.S.)
  Retaliating against officials for their role in proceedings or investigations constitutes a third-degree felony. If the retaliation causes bodily injury, the charge escalates to a second-degree felony.
• Racketeering and Criminal Activity Enhancements
  Because these offenses are now included in Florida’s racketeering statutes, prosecutors have additional leverage in complex cases.

Why the Change Matters

This legislation highlights Florida’s commitment to protecting its judicial process. For defendants, however, the law creates more pathways for prosecutors to add charges to existing cases. Consequently, a single incident may now trigger multiple felony counts.

With penalties ranging from a misdemeanor to a life felony, the consequences can alter a person’s entire future. Therefore, anyone under investigation or accused of these offenses should act quickly. Early intervention by a skilled defense attorney can often make a decisive difference in the outcome.

Contact Our Office Today

If you or a loved one has been accused of tampering with, harassing, or retaliating against a court official, you should not face the system alone. The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. brings over 25 years of courtroom experience in major crimes defense throughout Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.

Call (813) 727-7159 today to schedule a confidential consultation and start protecting your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who qualifies as a “court official” under this law?

A: The statute includes judges, justices, jurors, clerks, bailiffs, attorneys, judicial assistants, and administrative assistants.

Q: What does the law consider harassment?

A: Harassment refers to conduct that causes substantial emotional distress, serves no legitimate purpose, and directly targets a court official.

Q: Can charges apply without physical violence?

A: Yes. Threats, intimidation, or attempts to influence court officials can lead to criminal charges, even without physical force.

Q: What happens if retaliation results in injury?

A: The charge escalates to a second-degree felony, which carries far harsher penalties.

Q: Are attorneys exempt?

A: Yes. The law makes clear that attorneys performing their professional duties do not fall under these provisions.

Updated January 19, 2026 | Originally Published September 2025

How Misinformation Spread—And Why It Matters

When Florida’s HB 253 took effect on October 1, 2025, confusion spread rapidly. A viral video misinterpreted the law, claiming that any license plate frame covering any letters—including the word “Florida”—could result in criminal charges. Major media outlets picked up the story. Law enforcement agencies posted their own guidance, some of which was inaccurate.

AI-generated content amplified the confusion, repeating false claims without verification. Florida drivers were alarmed. Many removed frames they had used for years.

We published our analysis in September. We explained that standard frames remain legal—and that the new law targets something entirely different: devices designed to defeat cameras and law enforcement.

The response was swift. We were called wrong. We were told we didn’t understand the law. Commenters cited sheriff’s office videos and news reports as proof we were mistaken.

We stood by our analysis. And in December 2025, both the bill’s sponsor and the state agency confirmed we were right.

The Official Record: What Authorities Now Say

Rep. Doug Bankson (Bill Sponsor)

“What started as a false alarm became a raging fire of misinformation regarding license plate frames, when an errant video went viral, even being picked up by the media… The reported information is absolutely untrue. No one is in danger for sporting their favorite frame, as long as their license number and sticker are uncovered… So fear not to cheer on your favorite team, alma mater, or even your car dealer. Yes, this is still the Free State of Florida!”

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

On December 12, 2025, FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner issued a memo to all Florida law enforcement agencies clarifying that:

• License plate frames are NOT prohibited by the new law
• Frames are legal as long as they don’t obscure the alphanumeric plate number and validation sticker
• The information at the bottom of the plate is NOT a “primary feature”—frames covering this area are permissible
• A 2019 Fourth DCA case analyzing similar statute found such frames permissible

The Rule: What’s Actually Legal

Quick Compliance Guide

What HB 253 Actually Targets

Rep. Bankson clarified that HB 253 addresses “tag flipping”—the practice of using devices triggered from inside the vehicle to hide or swap license plates to avoid tolls, cameras, or law enforcement. The law creates criminal penalties for:

1. Possession of Obscuring Devices (Misdemeanor)

Simply possessing a plate flipper or obscuring device is now a second-degree misdemeanor—even if your vehicle is parked.

2. The “Getaway Clause” (Felony)

If an obscuring device is used to conceal a crime, avoid arrest, or bypass toll/red-light cameras, the charge escalates to a third-degree felony.

3. Police Impersonation Lighting (Felony)

Using unauthorized red, red-and-white, or blue lights in a manner suggesting law enforcement is now a third-degree felony.

How We Defend Improper Stops

Because this law is new and misinformation is widespread, enforcement is inconsistent. We’re seeing officers initiate traffic stops for standard frames that do not actually violate the statute. When that happens, any evidence found during the stop—drugs, weapons, DUI indicators—may be suppressed.

Our 3-Point Defense Strategy:

1. The “Primary Features” Test: If body cam footage shows your numbers and sticker were visible, the officer lacked reasonable suspicion for the stop.
2. Device vs. Frame: We force the State to prove the object was a “device” intended to obscure, not a standard “frame.”
3. Video Evidence: We use dashcam and body cam footage to contradict claims of “unreadable” plates.

Pro Tip: If you’re stopped for a plate violation, safely take a clear photo of your license plate immediately after the interaction. This photo can be the difference between conviction and dismissal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Commitment to Accurate Legal Information

When we published our original analysis, we knew it would face scrutiny. We read the statute carefully. Our Founder Rocky Brancato understood the legislative intent. We knew the difference between §320.262 (obscuring devices) and §316.605 (plate display requirements).

We stood by our interpretation even when commenters insisted we were wrong, even when they cited law enforcement videos as authority, and even when AI-generated content repeated inaccurate claims.

Now both the bill’s sponsor and the state’s highway safety agency have confirmed what we said from the beginning: standard license plate frames are legal in Florida.

This is what experienced legal counsel looks like. We don’t follow viral videos. Our founder Rocky Brancato doesn’t repeat what others say without verification. We read the law, apply decades of experience, and give you the information you can rely on.

Stopped or Charged Under Florida’s Plate Laws?

New laws often lead to over-policing. A misunderstanding of §320.262 by an officer should not result in a permanent criminal record for you. If you’ve been stopped or charged under Florida’s license plate or vehicle lighting laws, I can help.

I’m Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato. With over 25 years of experience as a Tampa criminal defense attorney, I utilize the specific language of statutes to file Motions to Suppress. If the stop was bad, the evidence found during that stop may be thrown out.

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

What Is Trenton’s Law?

On October 1, 2025, a sweeping new Florida law known as Trenton’s Law took effect, fundamentally changing how DUI and BUI offenses are prosecuted and punished in Florida. This legislation represents one of the most significant expansions of DUI penalties in recent Florida history.

Specifically, Trenton’s Law accomplishes four major objectives: it criminalizes refusal to submit to chemical testing, enhances penalties for repeat offenders, increases sentencing for DUI and BUI manslaughter, and updates Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code to impose higher sentencing points for impaired driving offenses. Consequently, anyone arrested for DUI or BUI after October 1, 2025 faces substantially more severe consequences than under prior law.

Breath Test Refusal Is Now a Crime

One of the most significant changes under Trenton’s Law is the criminalization of breath and urine test refusal. Prior to October 1, 2025, refusing a lawful request for chemical testing resulted in an administrative license suspension but was not itself a criminal offense.

Under the new law, refusing to submit to testing now carries the following criminal penalties:

Moreover, officers must now clearly advise drivers that refusing a lawful test is not only grounds for license suspension but also a crime that can be prosecuted. This expanded implied consent warning ensures defendants cannot claim ignorance of the criminal consequences.

Enhanced DUI and BUI Manslaughter Penalties

Trenton’s Law dramatically increases penalties for DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and vessel homicide—particularly for defendants with prior convictions. Under the new law, these offenses are now elevated to first-degree felonies when the defendant has a prior conviction for any of these offenses.

Prior Convictions That Trigger Enhancement

A defendant’s current charge will be elevated to a first-degree felony if they have any prior conviction for:

• DUI manslaughter (Florida Statute § 316.193(3)(c)3)
• BUI manslaughter (Florida Statute § 327.35(3)(c)3)
• Vehicular homicide (Florida Statute § 782.071)
• Vessel homicide (Florida Statute § 782.072)

Trenton’s Law: Before and After Comparison

Offense Severity Ranking Changes

Trenton’s Law also updates Florida’s Offense Severity Ranking Chart under the Criminal Punishment Code. DUI, BUI, vehicular homicide, and vessel homicide offenses have been moved higher on the chart, resulting in significantly more sentencing points.

In Florida’s sentencing system, higher offense severity rankings translate directly into longer mandatory minimum sentences and increased prison exposure. Therefore, even defendants without prior convictions will face harsher guideline sentences for DUI and BUI offenses committed after October 1, 2025.

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Enhancements

Trenton’s Law applies identical enhancements to boating under the influence offenses. For Tampa Bay area boaters—including those in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties—this means that BUI arrests now carry the same serious consequences as DUI arrests.

Specifically, the law provides that:

• Refusing breath or urine testing during a BUI investigation is now a criminal offense
• BUI manslaughter with a prior conviction for DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or vessel homicide is a first-degree felony
• Vessel homicide carries enhanced sentencing points under the Criminal Punishment Code

What Trenton’s Law Means for Tampa Bay Drivers and Boaters

For drivers and boaters across Tampa Bay—including Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties—Trenton’s Law significantly raises the stakes in DUI and BUI cases. The changes affect everyone from first-time offenders to those with prior records.

A refusal to blow is no longer just an administrative suspension—it can now lead to a permanent criminal record. Likewise, repeat DUI or BUI offenders face life-altering felony enhancements that can result in decades of prison time.

If you or a loved one is charged under this new law, it is crucial to work with an experienced defense attorney who understands both the criminal trial process and the nuances of Florida’s sentencing guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions: Trenton’s Law

What is Trenton’s Law in Florida?

Trenton’s Law is a 2025 Florida statute that significantly increases penalties for DUI and BUI offenses. The law criminalizes breath test refusal, enhances penalties for repeat offenders, elevates DUI and BUI manslaughter to first-degree felonies for defendants with prior convictions, and increases sentencing points under Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code. It takes effect October 1, 2025.

Does refusing a breath test now carry criminal charges in Florida?

Yes. Under Trenton’s Law, refusing to submit to a lawful breath or urine test is now a criminal offense. A first refusal is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. A second or subsequent refusal is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

What happens if someone with a prior DUI manslaughter conviction causes another fatal crash?

Under Trenton’s Law, they can now be charged with a first-degree felony, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in state prison. This is a dramatic increase from the previous second-degree felony classification, which carried a maximum of 15 years.

Does Trenton’s Law apply to boating under the influence (BUI)?

Yes. The law applies identical enhancements to BUI offenses. Refusing testing during a BUI investigation is now a criminal offense, and BUI manslaughter with a prior conviction is now a first-degree felony. Vessel homicide also receives enhanced sentencing points.

When does Trenton’s Law take effect?

Trenton’s Law takes effect on October 1, 2025. All DUI and BUI arrests occurring on or after this date will be subject to the new enhanced penalties, including criminal charges for refusal.

Should I refuse the breath test under the new law?

This is a complex legal question that depends on your specific circumstances. Under Trenton’s Law, refusal now carries criminal penalties in addition to license suspension—but providing a breath sample can also provide evidence for the prosecution. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the strategic considerations based on your individual situation.

What prior convictions trigger the first-degree felony enhancement?

The first-degree felony enhancement applies if the defendant has any prior conviction for DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or vessel homicide. Any one of these prior convictions will elevate a new DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or vessel homicide charge to a first-degree felony.

How can a Tampa DUI attorney help with charges under Trenton’s Law?

An experienced Tampa DUI attorney can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, question the administration of field sobriety tests, challenge breath test results, file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, and advocate for alternative sentencing. Given the enhanced penalties under Trenton’s Law, aggressive defense from the earliest stages is critical.

Related:

• Tampa DUI Lawyer – Full DUI defense services
• Tampa CDL DUI Suspension Attorney – Commercial license defense
• Retrograde Extrapolation: Challenging BAC Evidence in Florida DUI Cases
• Tampa Boating Law 2025 Lucy’s Law

What the Florida Utility Worker Law 2025 Does

The law defines a utility worker as anyone clearly identified by a patch, emblem, or uniform who works for or contracts with a utility. Covered utilities include electricity, gas, water, wastewater, and communications services.

The law also reclassifies criminal offenses:

• Assault becomes a first-degree misdemeanor.
• Battery becomes a third-degree felony.
• Aggravated assault becomes a second-degree felony.
• Aggravated battery becomes a first-degree felony.

Why This Matters

Florida raised the stakes. Even a brief confrontation with a utility worker could result in felony charges. Police may arrest without a warrant if they believe the offense occurred. Juveniles face fingerprinting and state criminal record entries, making the impact long-term.

Protect Yourself if Accused

These cases are no longer treated as minor. Prosecutors push for maximum penalties. A conviction could bring prison, a permanent record, and lasting damage to your future.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we know how prosecutors build these cases. With more than 25 years of trial experience, Rocky Brancato fights for clients facing serious felony charges in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco.

Call (813) 727-7159 today for a confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the Florida utility worker law 2025 take effect?

A: The law starts October 1, 2025.

Q: Who qualifies as a utility worker?

A: Any clearly identified worker for a utility providing electricity, gas, water, wastewater, or communications services.

Q: What if I’m charged with battery on a utility worker?

A: That charge is now a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

Q: Can police arrest me without a warrant?

A: Yes. Officers may arrest if they have probable cause.

Q: Do the rules apply to juveniles?

A: Yes. Juveniles are fingerprinted, and records go into Florida’s criminal history system.

A new Florida child luring law goes into effect on October 1, 2025. House Bill 777 amends Florida Statute 787.025, expanding the scope of child luring offenses and significantly increasing penalties. If you are accused under this statute in Tampa Bay, the risks are higher than ever before.

Key Changes Under HB 777

Penalties Under F.S. 787.025 (As Amended)

Why This Matters in Tampa Bay

Prosecutors now have more leverage in child-related cases. The expansion from under 12 to under 14 significantly broadens the pool of potential victims. The upgrade from misdemeanor to felony means that even first-time accusations now carry the possibility of prison time and a permanent felony record.

For anyone accused in Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, these changes raise the stakes significantly. A conviction can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and civil rights for the rest of your life.

The Age Defense: What Has Actually Changed?

Florida law has long prohibited defendants from claiming they did not know—or were misled about—a child’s age in sex crime and child-related cases. HB 777 does not create this rule; it simply codifies it explicitly within F.S. 787.025 itself. The practical effect is to reinforce what was already the law and make it unmistakably clear to defendants, defense attorneys, and juries alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Florida child luring law 2025?

House Bill 777 amends Florida Statute 787.025, which criminalizes luring or enticing a child. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, and expands protections to children under 14, upgrades first offenses to felonies, and covers luring children both into and out of structures or vehicles.

What are the penalties for child luring in Florida after October 1, 2025?

A first offense is now a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. If the defendant has a prior sex offense conviction, the charge becomes a second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison.

Can I argue that I thought the child was older?

No. Florida law does not permit ignorance or misrepresentation of a child’s age as a defense. HB 777 explicitly codifies this rule within F.S. 787.025, reinforcing what was already established Florida law.

Does child luring only apply to sex crimes?

No. The statute applies to luring a child for “other than a lawful purpose,” which can include non-sexual situations. However, prosecutors often charge luring alongside sex crimes or child abuse offenses.

What does “luring” mean under Florida law?

Under the amended statute, luring means intentionally enticing—or attempting to entice—a child under 14 into or out of a structure, dwelling, or conveyance for other than a lawful purpose.

Why should I hire a defense attorney immediately?

Early representation gives you the best chance to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and avoid the harshest penalties. A felony conviction can affect your freedom, career, housing, and civil rights for the rest of your life.

Related Defense Resources

Visit my Tampa Sex Crimes Defense page to see how I defend against charges under Florida’s strict sex crime statutes. Explore my Tampa Child Abuse Defense page for insight on how medical records and expert testimony can shift the outcome of a case.

For the full text of the legislation, see the official Florida Senate Bill Text — CS/HB 777 (2025).

Facing Charges Under the Florida Child Luring Law?

If you or a loved one faces charges under Florida Statute 787.025, call me immediately. I bring over 25 years of experience defending major sex crimes cases. As a former litigator in the elite Major Crimes Division at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office—handling sex crimes, homicides, and child abuse—I understand how prosecutors build these cases and how to fight back.

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

Updated January 19, 2026

On October 1, 2025, Florida implemented a significant new animal protection law known as Trooper’s Law. This legislation amends Florida Statute 828.13 and creates stronger penalties for abandoning restrained dogs during natural disasters. For pet owners in Tampa Bay, understanding this law is essential—violations now carry felony-level consequences.

What Trooper’s Law Does

The law was passed in response to concerns that many dogs are left chained or tethered outside during storms, unable to escape or seek shelter. Trooper’s Law makes two key changes to Florida’s animal cruelty statutes:

Key Definitions Under F.S. 828.13

Penalties for Violating Trooper’s Law

Why This Matters for Tampa Bay Residents

Florida residents in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties face frequent hurricane and storm threats. This law places new obligations on pet owners and raises the stakes significantly for those who fail to protect their animals during emergencies.

Importantly, the law highlights how criminal charges can arise from decisions made under pressure during storm preparations. A pet owner who evacuates without bringing their restrained dog inside could face felony prosecution—even if the decision was made in a moment of panic or confusion.

Legal Implications

While Trooper’s Law is designed to protect animals, it also means individuals accused of violating the statute face serious criminal consequences. A felony conviction can affect:

• Employment opportunities (many employers conduct background checks)
• Housing applications (landlords may deny felony applicants)
• Professional licenses (nursing, teaching, real estate, and other licensed professions)
• Civil rights (voting rights, firearm ownership)

Anyone under investigation or facing arrest for animal cruelty under this statute should seek experienced legal counsel immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trooper’s Law

Questions About Florida Criminal Law?

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., I monitor changes to Florida criminal law and help clients understand how new statutes may affect them. If you have questions about Trooper’s Law or any criminal matter, I am here to help. With over 25 years of experience defending clients across Tampa Bay, I understand both the letter of the law and the real-world circumstances that lead to these cases.

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

Key Changes in the Law

The update to Florida Statute 316.1935 brings several important changes:

• Marked Patrol Vehicles – To charge under the harsher subsections, the police vehicle must display agency insignia and jurisdictional markings. Lights and sirens must also be activated.
• Felony Reclassifications –
  • High-speed fleeing or reckless driving while fleeing is now a second-degree felony.
  • If someone is injured or killed, it rises to a first-degree felony with a three-year minimum prison sentence.
• Leaving a Crash Scene – Fleeing after a crash can lead to aggravated charges, with even greater penalties if injuries occur.
• Sentencing Multipliers – If you have prior fleeing convictions, your sentencing points increase by 1.5 times, making prison more likely.

Why It Matters to Tampa Drivers

These changes matter because prosecutors across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties will apply them aggressively. A split-second choice to drive away from a stop can now mean a felony conviction, years in prison, and a permanent record.

Judges will also have less discretion to reduce sentences when mandatory minimums apply. That makes it critical to have an experienced defense attorney who understands how to challenge:

• Whether the officer’s vehicle met the new statutory requirements.
• Whether the facts support reclassification to a higher felony.
• Whether the multiplier is being applied correctly.

Local Impact in Tampa Bay

Courts in Tampa, Clearwater, and Dade City already handle many fleeing cases. With this law, penalties are harsher, especially if there was an accident. Defense strategy now requires a careful review of the stop order, patrol vehicle markings, and crash evidence.

For background on the statute itself, you can read the text on the Florida Senate website.

FAQ: Florida Fleeing and Eluding Law 2025

What is the Florida fleeing and eluding law 2025?

The Florida fleeing and eluding law 2025 is a new update to §316.1935. It increases penalties for drivers who refuse to stop for law enforcement. It also reclassifies certain fleeing offenses as more serious felonies.

When does the Florida fleeing and eluding law 2025 take effect?

The law takes effect on October 1, 2025. Any offense committed after that date will be subject to the new penalties.

What are the penalties under the new law?

Fleeing at high speed or driving recklessly while fleeing is now a second-degree felony. If serious injury or death occurs, it becomes a first-degree felony with a mandatory minimum of three years in prison.

Does the law apply if the police car is unmarked?

No. For the harsher penalties to apply, the law requires the police car to display insignia and markings, with lights and sirens activated.

What if I already have a prior fleeing conviction?

The law includes a sentencing multiplier. If you have prior fleeing convictions, your sentence points increase by 1.5. That makes prison time much more likely.

How does this affect Tampa, Clearwater, and Dade City drivers?

Local prosecutors in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties are expected to apply this law aggressively. That means drivers charged under the new law face higher risks of prison and long-term consequences.

Where can I read the law for myself?

You can review the statute on the Florida Senate website.

What should I do if I am charged?

Call a lawyer right away. The earlier you involve an attorney, the stronger your defense. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we analyze whether the stop was legal and fight to reduce or dismiss charges.

Protect Your Future Now

If you or a loved one faces a fleeing charge, you need strong representation right away. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., attorney Rocky Brancato brings more than 25 years of courtroom experience. He has handled thousands of felony cases and personally develops defense strategies tailored to each client.

Call us today at (813) 727-7159 or visit our Tampa Criminal Defense page to schedule a confidential consultation.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we defend people across Tampa and Hillsborough County who are charged with crimes like resisting arrest, obstruction, and now violations of Florida Statute 843.31. If you’ve been arrested for filming or standing too close to police, we can help.

What the New Law Says

Under Section 843.31, Florida Statutes, it’s now a second-degree misdemeanor to stay within 25 feet of a police officer, firefighter, or EMT after being told to back away. If you’re recording and don’t move after a verbal warning, and police say you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass, you could be arrested.

Penalties include up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

This law applies across Florida—including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and throughout Hillsborough County.

Can You Still Record Police Officers in Tampa?

Yes, you can still legally film police in public places. That right is protected by the First Amendment. But the new law gives officers more power to control how close you can get. If you’re filming and they tell you to step back—and you don’t—you’re at risk of being charged under this statute.

How to Safely Record Police Without Getting Arrested

If you want to record an arrest, traffic stop, or emergency response, follow these safety tips:

• Stay at least 25 feet away – If an officer tells you to back up, do it. Don’t argue.
• Use your phone’s zoom – You can still record from a distance.
• Keep calm and don’t talk to the officers – Stay quiet and focus on filming.
• Don’t block emergency workers or vehicles – Move out of the way immediately.
• Stay on public property – Sidewalks and parking lots are usually safe zones.
• Film the warning if possible – If you’re told to back up, record that moment. It may help your defense later.

Arrested for Filming Police in Hillsborough County? Call a Criminal Defense Lawyer Now

Many arrests under this new law are based on the officer’s opinion. You may not have intended to interfere—but police can still say you did. That’s why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to challenge vague claims and protect your rights.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we’ve spent over 25 years defending people charged with serious crimes in Tampa and Hillsborough County. We understand how these cases work—and how to fight them. Whether you were arrested at a protest, during a traffic stop, or while filming a family member’s arrest, we are ready to step in and help.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been charged under Florida Statute 843.31 or any other criminal offense, don’t wait. The sooner you call, the more we can do.

Call (813) 727-7159 now for a free and confidential consultation with Rocky Brancato, Tampa criminal defense attorney. We serve clients in Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and across Hillsborough County.

Let us protect your freedom—so you can protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filming Police in Tampa, Florida

Is It Legal to Record Police Officers in Tampa?

Yes. You generally have a First Amendment right to film police officers performing their duties in public places in Tampa and throughout Florida. However, a new Florida law (Florida Statute § 843.31) that took effect on January 1, 2025, restricts how close you can be while recording.

What Does Florida Statute 843.31 Say About Filming Police?

Under Section 843.31, it is a second-degree misdemeanor to stay within 25 feet of a police officer, firefighter, or EMT after being told to move away. If you continue recording without moving back and the officer believes you intended to interfere, threaten, or harass, you can be arrested.

What Are the Penalties for Violating Florida’s Filming Law?

Violating Florida Statute 843.31 is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. A conviction also creates a criminal record that may affect future employment or licensing opportunities.

Does This Law Apply Throughout the Tampa Bay Area?

Yes. Florida Statute 843.31 applies statewide—including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and all of Hillsborough County. Local police departments must follow the same 25-foot rule under this law.

Can I Still Record Police in Public?

Yes. Your right to record law enforcement in public remains protected, but you must comply with any verbal instruction to move at least 25 feet away. Ignoring that warning could result in arrest under Section 843.31.

How Can I Safely Record Police Without Getting Arrested?

To safely record police encounters in Tampa:

• Keep at least 25 feet away from officers and emergency workers.
• Move back immediately if asked—do not argue or resist.
• Use your phone’s zoom to capture video from a distance.
• Stay calm and silent while filming; avoid direct engagement.
• Do not block emergency vehicles or personnel.
• Stay on public property such as sidewalks or parking lots.
• If possible, record the officer’s verbal warning to move back. This could support your defense if you are arrested.

What Should I Do If I’m Arrested for Filming Police in Tampa?

If you are arrested for violating Florida Statute 843.31, contact an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney immediately. Your lawyer can investigate whether the officer’s instruction was lawful and whether your actions actually interfered with their duties.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Charged Under Section 843.31?

Arrests under this law often depend on an officer’s subjective interpretation of your intent. A knowledgeable attorney can challenge vague allegations, argue that your recording was constitutionally protected, and work to have the charges dismissed or reduced.

Who Should I Contact If I’m Arrested for Filming Police in Hillsborough County?

If you’ve been charged under Florida Statute 843.31, contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. for a free and confidential consultation.
Attorney Rocky Brancato represents clients throughout Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and Hillsborough County.
Call (813) 727-7159 today to protect your rights and your future.