Each year in March and April, college students arrive in Sarasota and the surrounding area in droves to enjoy our sunshine, beaches, water, and nightlife and take a break from wintry weather elsewhere. As students pour into the area for spring break revelries, it’s inevitable that some will be arrested for crimes such as underage alcohol possession, possession of a fake ID, disorderly conduct, and criminal mischief.
Additionally, Sarasota and Manatee counties are home to a number of colleges and satellite campuses, meaning the area has a population of thousands of students who live here during their school year — and who may run into trouble with police while out trying to have a good time. A local Sarasota criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your options.
Common Underage & Student Crimes
Just like anyone else, a student can encounter trouble with the law in any number of ways. However, students tend to be charged with certain crimes more often than others. Some of these offenses are crimes because a person is under age 21, which makes college students more vulnerable to being arrested simply because of their age.
Common charges faced by college students in Sarasota and the surrounding area include:
Possession of Alcohol
With very few exceptions, it’s illegal in Florida for anyone under 21 to possess alcohol. This offense can be a second or first-degree misdemeanor punishable by a jail sentence, probation, and/or a fine. You could also lose your driver’s license.
Possession of a Fake ID
Possession of a false driver’s license or identification card can be a serious felony charge in Florida. Punishment for a conviction may include a prison sentence and thousands of dollars in fines.
Property Crimes
Offenses involving damage to property, such as criminal mischief, criminal trespassing, and arson, can be misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the charge and the circumstances. Punishments may include a jail or prison sentence, house arrest, probation, and costly fines.
Disorderly Conduct
Engaging in conduct that outrages the public decency, breaches the peace, or involves brawling or fighting is a misdemeanor crime in Florida, known as disorderly conduct. Punishment upon conviction can include a jail sentence, probation, and a fine.