Florida Criminal Attorney Blog
Anytime a public or private school teacher is arrested for a criminal offense, such as a drug crime, he or she could face consequences that not only affect their personal life, but their future careers in education as well. A Hardee County Criminal Defense Lawyer at Whittel & Melton can help all certified educators fight any criminal charge in Bowling Green, Wauchula, Zolfo Springs and the surrounding areas.
Recently, a Hardee County Junior High teacher was arrested after she was allegedly caught smoking marijuana on campus.
According to a Hardee County Sheriff’s report, an anonymous tipster clued officials in that the 26-year-old teacher had marijuana inside her car that was parked at the school.
A K9 narcotics dog was brought to the parking lot and apparently sniffed out the scent and led detectives to the woman’s car. A search of her vehicle allegedly revealed marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
According to deputies, she was arrested at the school and transported to the Hardee County Jail.
The most common criminal charges filed against teachers and educators in Hardee County include:
• Possession of Marijuana
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
• Driving on a Suspended License (DWLS)
• Petit Theft
• Disorderly Conduct
• Domestic Violence
• Battery
• Resisting an Officer without Violence
If you are a teacher or certified educator that has been arrested for a crime in Hardee County, the Florida Department of Education will send you written notice of a preliminary investigation once a case has been opened against you. This letter will explain the criminal allegations against you, whether charges were filed and the date the alleged criminal misconduct occurred. Additionally, the letter will explain that if the allegations are substantiated disciplinary action could be taken. This could mean permanent revocation of your teaching certificate. However, there are certain steps that you can take during the preliminary investigation phase that can help you combat any allegations of misconduct.
If you are a public or private school teacher in Hardee County and have been accused of a criminal offense, please contact a Hardee County Criminal Defense Lawyer at Whittel & Melton today online or call 866-608-5529 to discuss your case. Your initial consultation is always free and we can make sure you understand the charges you are up against and what legal defenses are available to you. It is important that you do not speak to law enforcement about the details leading up to your arrest without talking to us first.
Photo credit: Nina J. G. / Foter / CC BY-ND