Allegations of sex crimes carry some of the harshest penalties in Florida law and some of the strongest social stigma a person can face. A conviction can mean years—or even life—in prison, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and a permanent mark on your reputation and future. At the Law Offices of Anthony G. Ryan, we understand the overwhelming impact of these charges. With more than 20 years of courtroom experience and Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law by The Florida Bar, attorney Anthony G. Ryan provides focused, trial-tested defense for individuals accused of sex crimes in Sarasota, Bradenton, and surrounding communities.
Types of Sex Crime Cases We Defend
Over his career, Mr. Ryan has defended clients in a wide range of sex crime cases, including:
- Sexual Battery / Rape
- Lewd or Lascivious Molestation
- Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor
- Internet Sting Operations and “Traveling to Meet a Minor”
- Possession or Distribution of Child Pornography
These are among the most challenging cases to defend because of the emotional weight they carry and the severe mandatory sentencing guidelines under Florida law. Despite this, Anthony G. Ryan works closely with clients to develop a defense strategy built on the unique facts of each case.
Early Intervention Can Change the Outcome
If you have been contacted by law enforcement or identified as a target of a sex crime investigation, you may have a critical opportunity to protect yourself before charges are filed. In these situations, an experienced defense attorney can intervene with investigators or the State Attorney’s Office to influence charging decisions.
Anthony G. Ryan has extensive experience handling pre-arrest investigations. After reviewing your situation in detail, he may:
- Contact the detective directly to gain a better understanding of the nature of the allegations.
- Conduct an independent defense investigation.
- Retain a private investigator to interview witnesses and gather evidence.
- Recommend a private polygraph examination to present to the prosecutor as part of a proactive defense strategy.
While polygraph results are not admissible in court, prosecutors often consider them in “word against word” cases, especially where evidence is limited.
Protecting Your Rights During Investigation
One of the most important decisions during an investigation is whether to speak to law enforcement. Many people believe they can explain themselves—but without proper legal guidance, statements made to investigators can harm your defense. Mr. Ryan will carefully advise you on whether to remain silent or provide a statement, always prioritizing your constitutional rights.
When you retain the Law Offices of Anthony G. Ryan, you gain a board-certified criminal trial attorney who will guide you through every step and build a strategy tailored to your case.
Severe Penalties for Sex Crimes in Florida
Florida imposes some of the toughest penalties in the nation for sexually motivated offenses:
- Sexual Battery (§ 794.011, Fla. Stat.): Can result in life imprisonment depending on the circumstances.
- Lewd or Lascivious Offenses (§ 800.04, Fla. Stat.): Felony charges with mandatory prison terms for many convictions.
- Child Pornography (§ 827.071, Fla. Stat.): Up to 15 years in prison per count for distribution, with sex offender registration required.
Even when a case does not result in incarceration, a conviction or plea often results in mandatory sex offender registration, probation, electronic monitoring, and restrictions that can last a lifetime.
Challenging Sting Operations and Entrapment
Attorney Anthony G. Ryan has successfully defended clients accused of “traveling to meet a minor” in internet sting operations. In one case, charges were dismissed after Mr. Ryan demonstrated that law enforcement used deceptive tactics—posting adult images on dating websites, initiating conversations, and later switching to claim the fictitious person was underage while steering the conversation toward sexual activity.
These so-called “to catch a predator” tactics can lead to entrapment defenses when investigators push individuals into conduct they would not otherwise have pursued. Mr. Ryan knows how to expose questionable police methods and challenge the credibility of the investigation.
Your Defense Starts Now
If you or someone you know has been accused of sexual battery, unlawful sexual activity, child pornography, or traveling to meet a minor, you need immediate representation. Sex crime cases move quickly, and prosecutors are aggressive. Having an attorney who is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law ensures that your case will be handled by a seasoned trial lawyer with the courtroom experience to stand up to the State.
Contact the Law Offices of Anthony G. Ryan today for a confidential consultation. Protect your rights, your freedom, and your future by putting proven defense on your side.
