Sending young adults off to college is a source of great pride and a feeling of accomplishment for parents as their children take their final steps toward adulthood. Unfortunately, when college students are arrested or convicted of a crime, it can change the trajectory of their lives. There has been an uptick in student-involved college campus crimes in Florida in recent years.
Crime statistics from the U.S. Department of Education’s Campus Safety and Security Data report 384 student-involved crimes at the University of Florida at Gainesville in 2019. It includes on-campus, affiliated off-campus, and the surrounding Gainesville neighborhood locations. A breakdown of these statistics includes 149 arrests for major crimes, 85 arrests for possession, 88 violence against women crimes, and 62 disciplinary actions during that year.
Ocala and Gainesville College Campus Criminal Defense Attorneys
If a college student is accused of committing a crime on a Florida campus, it is vital they contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At The AP Law Group, we can help them understand the charges and the potential consequences. Our legal team can assist with the investigation and defense of the charge.
Let us get the case started in the right direction, ensuring that your college student’s rights are protected and that they have the best possible chance of avoiding incarceration. Our goal is to get the charges dismissed or reduced. Under certain circumstances, we can work towards a sealing or expungement of an arrest or conviction to allow them to move forward without the burden of a criminal record.
Consequences of an Arrest or Criminal Conviction
When a student is arrested or convicted of a crime committed on a college campus, they are in jeopardy of university sanctions, ranging from a reprimand to expulsion from the university. In addition, there may be catastrophic effects from the criminal justice system that may follow them throughout life. If convicted, there might be jail time, mandatory probation, hefty fines, restitution, and other sanctions imposed by a judge. An arrest record or a criminal conviction will appear on a background check. It can prevent the student from completing their education and limit their chances for employment, professional licenses, and even housing.
Common Crimes on Campus:
- Theft
- Burglary
- Sex Crimes
- Negligent Manslaughter
- DUI
- Aggravated Assault
- Drug Crimes
- Harassment, Stalking
- Faked, Forged, or Stolen Identification
- Internet Crimes
- Other Violent Crimes
Reasons for the Increase in Crimes
For many young people, college is the first time away from home and living independently. It can be a time of great freedom, but with it comes great responsibility. Many students are not used to managing their own time and finances, leading to problems. Crimes at the University of Florida in Gainesville and other Florida colleges are often attributed to students under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In addition, the increasing cost of tuition and living expenses has put financial pressure on students, leading some to resort to criminal activity to make ends meet. Modern-day social media and other technology have made it easier for students to connect and coordinate criminal activity.
Whatever the reasons for the increase in campus crime, parents should be aware of the potential risks their children may face when attending college.
Contact the AP Law Group when Your Child’s Future is at Stake
Facing criminal charges as a college student requires an aggressive defense. At The AP Law Group, we fight to protect your freedom and education, representing students at university disciplinary hearings and in the courtroom. We believe that one mistake should not taint a future that is just beginning. Our dedicated team has earned a reputation for achieving positive outcomes in and around the Gainesville and Ocala communities.
If you are a parent whose college student is in trouble, contact The AP Law Group at (352) 732-9191 to schedule an appointment at our Ocala or Gainesville, Florida office. We defend against all misdemeanor and felony charges.