What to Do If You’re Under Investigation for Online Crimes
Facing online crime accusations? Protect your rights with an experienced cybercrime defense lawyer.
Understanding Online Crime Charges
Being investigated for an online crime can be overwhelming. Whether you’re accused of online solicitation, digital content possession, or other internet crimes, it’s essential to take immediate action. Federal agencies such as the FBI, Homeland Security, and state task forces aggressively pursue these cases.
Common online crime charges include:
- Online Solicitation – Communicating online with intent to solicit illegal activity.
- Unlawful Digital Content Possession – Allegations of possessing or sharing restricted content.
- Internet Sting Operations – Law enforcement traps targeting online users.
- Cybercrime Charges – Hacking, fraud, or identity theft.
- Federal Investigations – High-stakes cases involving multiple agencies.
Signs That You’re Under Investigation
Many people don’t realize they’re under investigation until law enforcement takes direct action. If any of the following happen, you must consult a cybercrime defense lawyer immediately:
- Law enforcement officers contact you for questioning.
- Your electronic devices (phones, computers) are seized.
- You notice surveillance or unusual online activity.
- You receive a federal grand jury subpoena.
Do NOT speak to the police without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
How a Cybercrime Defense Lawyer Can Help
Facing online sex crime allegations or an internet sting operation requires expert legal representation. A skilled attorney can:
- Suppress illegally obtained evidence – Law enforcement must follow strict search and seizure laws.
- Challenge digital forensic reports – Experts can dispute unreliable data or evidence mishandling.
- Negotiate reduced charges – Avoid severe penalties through legal negotiation.
- Fight for case dismissal – If evidence is weak, your lawyer can seek to have charges dropped.
Hiring an internet crimes lawyer as early as possible can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
What NOT to Do If You’re Under Investigation
When facing serious allegations, mistakes can make your case worse. Avoid these critical errors:
- Do NOT delete files or messages – This can be seen as obstruction of justice.
- Do NOT talk to police without legal counsel – Anything you say can be misinterpreted.
- Do NOT ignore the investigation – Take immediate action to build your defense.
- Do NOT attempt to contact alleged victims – This can be used against you in court.
Defenses Against Online Crime Allegations
Each case is unique, but common defense strategies include:
- Entrapment – If law enforcement coerced or manipulated you into illegal activity.
- Lack of Criminal Intent – Accusations without proof of intent to commit a crime.
- Unlawful Search & Seizure – If your devices were taken without proper warrants.
- Mistaken Identity – If someone else used your IP address or devices.
Why You Need a Federal Cybercrime Defense Attorney
Many online crimes are prosecuted at the federal level, making penalties severe. A conviction can result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences – Federal charges carry mandatory minimum sentences.
- Sex offender registration – For certain online sex crime convictions.
- Heavy fines – Can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Permanent criminal record – Affecting employment and housing opportunities.
With the right legal representation, you may be able to avoid or reduce these penalties.
Contact a Cybercrime Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing an internet sex crime charge, federal cybercrime case, or online solicitation allegations, do not wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense will be.
LibertyBell Law Group specializes in defending against these charges with aggressive legal strategies.
📞 Call us today at (818) 267-8264 for a confidential consultation.
