How the Coronavirus can Lead to Criminal Consequences

The coronavirus is wreaking havoc all across the country, and Florida is facing its own crisis in the wake of the virus. As the state desperately tries to slow the spread, , some people do not seem to be getting the message. It is important that everyone follows the social distancing guidelines, as well as remain in quarantine when they are ill. Not only will failing to do so put others at risk, it could also result in criminal charges.

Breaking Quarantine Rules in Florida

Currently, people that are sick or that have been exposed to the virus are being asked to self-isolate if they are waiting to see if they have symptoms, or if they are only experiencing mild symptoms. Right now, these guidelines are running on the honor system. Simply put, while people are expected to abide by the rules so they help keep everyone else safe, there are no real consequences for those that do not follow them. However, that may not be the case for much longer.

Knowingly Spreading Coronavirus in Florida

Failing to comply with a quarantine order is severe enough, but some people are going even further than that. In early March, a man boarded a JetBlue flight after testing positive for the coronavirus. Although he knew that he had the virus, he did not tell anyone on board, or anyone that worked for the airline. He flew from New York to Palm Beach in close proximity to others that are now at risk of also testing positive for the virus.

The Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg has said that the state may have to enact legislation to deal with these types of scenarios so that no one is put at risk. That legislation will typically include the provision of being able to arrest someone for knowingly spreading the coronavirus. Additionally, people may face other consequences, as well. For example, the man that flew across the country is now banned from all JetBlue flights in the future.

Our Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers can Help with Charges

Although there are no laws surrounding coronavirus just yet, there might be in the future. Should these laws become official, many people will face charges even though they did not know they had coronavirus or that they were at risk for infection. When they do, our Orlando criminal defense lawyers can help. We know the defenses available to give accused individuals the best chance of beating the charges, and we want to help you, too. Call us at (407) 634-6604 or contact us online to arrange a meeting with one of our attorneys.

Resource:

fox35orlando.com/news/tracking-covid-19-more-than-760-coronavirus-cases-confirmed-in-florida-death-toll-rises-to-12

https://www.omaralawgroup.com/four-important-facts-about-dui-cases-in-florida/