False Bomb Threats

What starts out as a seemingly harmless prank or joke can turn into a real nightmare for anyone accused of making a false report of a bomb threat. Florida law has strict penalties for this charge that could last a lifetime, which makes it extremely important to consult with a criminal defense lawyer. Benjamin Herbst specializes in defending clients charged with false bomb threats and false threats to use a firearm in a violent manner in South Florida. He has extensive experience representing defendants in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach County, and also defends clients in Martin County and St. Lucie County. Benjamin is available 7 days a week to offer a free consultation at (954) 543-0305 and is willing to meet at his Fort Lauderdale office, his other locations in the Tri-County area or any other convenient location.

Florida statute 790.163 makes it illegal for any person to make a false report with intent to mislead any person concerning the placing or planting of a bomb or other explosive or concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner against another person. Violation of the false bomb threat law is a second-degree felony with a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison. Florida law prohibits a defendant from receiving a withhold of adjudication for this offense, so anyone charged is at risk of a permanent felony conviction on their record. This is a significant penalty that has life-long consequences if not handled properly. Additionally, any defendant charged with making a false threat could be liable to pay restitution for the costs of mobilizing law enforcement to respond to the threat. The state does not have to prove that the defendant actually had the ability to carry out the threat, which makes this one of the few crimes where words alone can result in a felony conviction and potential incarceration.

Defendants in cases for making false bomb threats or false threats of firearm violence are commonly juveniles or young adults. Benjamin specializes in defending juvenile defendants in South Florida and understands that preserving a teenager’s future is an immense responsibility. He knows how to communicate with his juvenile defendants and earns their trust by treating them with respect. He also makes it a priority to stay in constant contact with the family of the juvenile. Being a parent of a juvenile defendant is frightening and stressful, and Benjamin will work tirelessly to make sure the parents and other family members are informed each step during the process. He provides his cell phone number to all clients, and the parents of his juvenile clients, and is never for that a call or text message away. If your son or daughter has been charged with making a false bomb threat or threat of violence contact Benjamin to learn how he can fight to preserve your child’s future.

False bomb threat cases are also common in airports and other places where people come in contact with security personnel. We have seen numerous cases where a simple sarcastic remark can lead to arrest and felony prosecution, but a lawyer can help make sure you are not treated like a criminal for making an impulsive remark. Individuals suffering from mental illness and those who are intoxicated can also be charged with making a false bomb threat even when they clearly were not thinking properly. Once a false threat is made it is too late to take it back, and law enforcement will be quick to act. Benjamin has successfully defended all types of clients including numerous juveniles in cases involving threats of violence, and is standing by to offer a no obligation consultation about the defenses that may be available. There is no reason to take on the state without an experienced South Florida criminal defense lawyer, especially with a charge as serious as making a false bomb threat or other type of violent threat.