Human Smuggling Crimes in Florida
Under Florida Statute Section 787.07, the crime of human smuggling requires proof beyond all reasonable doubt that the defendant:
- transported into the state of Florida;
- another individual;
- who the defendant knew or should have known;
- had illegally entered the United States from another country.
Human smuggling is a third degree felony punishable by up to five (5) years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A separate crime can be charged for each individual the defendant transports into Florida in violation of Section 787.07, F.S. The human trafficking statute took effect in 2009 and was last modified in 2012.
Attorney for Human Trafficking Crimes in Tampa, FL
If you were charged with the crime of human trafficking or smuggling, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Sammis Law Firm. During the consultation, we can discuss the elements of the offense, defenses, and ways to avoid the typical punishments imposed after a conviction.
Our main office is located in downtown Tampa, FL. We have additional offices in New Port Richey and Clearwater, FL.
Call 813-250-0500.
Types of Human Smuggling and Trafficking in Florida
The state of Florida is often listed third for human trafficking, behind only Texas and California. In 2022, the Tampa Bay area was listed as having the largest share of Florida’s illicit human labor trade.
The most common examples of human smuggling and trafficking crimes prosecuted in the greater Tampa Bay area include the following:
- trafficking men, women, or children for forced criminal activities;
- trafficking for forced labor or services;
- trafficking another person for sexual exploitation; or
- trafficking for the removal of organs.
Additional Resources
Human Trafficking Task Force in Tampa Bay – the Department of Justice allocated extra resources to create a regional Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force in 2020. The task force includes local, state, and federal law enforcement, providing resources and support to the victims of trafficking and smuggling.
This article was last updated on Thursday, March 30, 2023.
