The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & AssociatesThe Law Office of Corey I. Cohen2026-07-02T18:06:34Zhttps://www.coreycohen.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1604921/2024/05/cropped-favicon-cohen512-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[What makes street racing a criminal charge in Florida?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522822026-07-02T18:06:34Z2026-07-02T18:06:34ZOne quick decision at a green light can put your license, your record and even your freedom at risk. If the police accuse you of racing, the uncertainty about what happens next can feel overwhelming.
This article examines the statutory mechanisms through which Florida transforms particular driving conduct into criminal liability.
How Florida law defines street racing
Florida Statute § 316.191 makes it a crime to take part in any race, speed competition or acceleration contest. The law covers stunts like burnouts, drifting and donuts. The law applies on public highways, streets and parking lots.You do not need to break the speed limit to face this charge. Prosecutors only need to show that you intended to compete or perform. That intent separates a criminal racing charge from an ordinary speeding ticket.
Who can face charges under the statute
The statute's reach extends considerably beyond the individual operating the vehicle. Multiple categories of participants may incur liability under this provision:
Drivers: Anyone operating a vehicle in a race, contest or stunt.
Passengers: Riders who knowingly take part in the event.
Organizers: People who coordinate, promote or collect money for a race.
Spectators: Watchers who may receive a non-criminal infraction and a fine.
This broad reach matters because you could face charges even if you never drove that night.
What penalties a conviction may carry
A first offense is usually a first-degree misdemeanor. A conviction can bring up to one year in jail and a $500 to $1,000 fine. It also carries a mandatory one-year license revocation. Police may impound your vehicle for 30 days.Repeat offenses raise the stakes. A second conviction within five years can bring fines up to $3,000 and a longer revocation. A third may become a third-degree felony with up to five years in prison.
Why these details matter for your next steps
Florida treats street racing as a deliberate act rather than a driving mistake. The statute defines racing broadly and carries penalties that escalate with each offense. Knowing these rules can help you see how much is at stake in your situation.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Can you face federal charges for cryptocurrency fraud in Florida?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522752026-06-05T11:04:01Z2026-06-05T11:04:01ZCryptocurrency has created a whole new world of financial opportunity. As such, federal law enforcement has been keeping a close eye on the sector.
Many people think the decentralized nature of crypto puts it out of reach of the law. But federal agencies have put serious resources into tracking and prosecuting cryptocurrency fraud all across the country, including in Florida. Knowing where federal law draws the line could matter a great deal if you ever find yourself under scrutiny.
What actions could lead to federal cryptocurrency fraud charges?
Federal prosecutors look at a wide range of conduct when pursuing cryptocurrency fraud cases. Some of it may catch you off guard. Be wary of:
Wire fraud involving cryptocurrency: Using digital assets to run a scheme that deceives someone for financial gain may fall under federal wire fraud laws, which carry stiff penalties.
Investment and Ponzi schemes: Promoting a crypto investment with false or misleading claims could bring federal fraud charges — even if the currency itself was real.
Money laundering through digital assets: Using cryptocurrency to hide where illegally obtained money came from may trigger federal money laundering charges even when the transactions look normal on the surface.
Tax evasion involving cryptocurrency: The IRS treats crypto as property. Failing to report your gains or using crypto to hide income could lead to federal tax fraud charges.
Exchange and wallet fraud: Breaking into someone else's crypto account or digital wallet without their consent could result in federal computer fraud and identity theft charges.
Knowing what draws federal attention is important — but knowing which agencies may get involved is just as critical.
Which federal agencies investigate cryptocurrency fraud in Florida?
Several federal agencies have the power and the tools to investigate cryptocurrency fraud cases in Florida. For example:
The FBI handles cryptocurrency fraud as part of its financial crimes work
The SEC steps in when a crypto investment qualifies as a security under federal law
The IRS Criminal Investigation division focuses on cases tied to unreported crypto gains or using digital assets to dodge taxes
The Department of Justice has teams that focus solely on crypto enforcement and work closely with Florida law enforcement on complex cases
A federal probe can start with something as small as a bank flagging a suspicious transaction
Federal cryptocurrency fraud cases often build slowly and quietly long before any charges come to light.Federal cryptocurrency fraud charges can turn your life upside down in ways that are hard to undo. If you think you may be under investigation getting legal guidance on your side as early as possible could make a real difference in what happens next.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Can individuals go to federal prison for domestic violence?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522742026-06-05T08:19:58Z2026-06-05T08:17:04ZWhen a local dispute turns into a federal matter
A standard domestic call becomes a federal crime under specific circumstances outlined by federal law. The federal government steps in and takes over the case when these specific actions happen:
Traveling across state lines to commit abuse: Crossing state lines with the intent to injure or harass an intimate partner is a major federal domestic violence crime
Forcing a partner to cross state lines: It is a federal crime to use force or threats to make a spouse or dating partner travel across state borders
Violating a protection order across state lines: Traveling to another state to intentionally break an active restraining order triggers federal charges
Using phones or computers to stalk: Sending threats or harassing a partner across state lines using the internet or phone calls can trigger federal cyberstalking charges
Once these interstate boundaries are crossed, local police hand your paperwork over to federal agents. You will then face a federal judge in downtown Orlando.
Pieces of evidence that can support a federal case
To secure a conviction, federal prosecutors must show actual proof of interstate travel and intent to cause harm. They will track your physical location by pulling text messages, social media posts and cell phone tower data.
Prosecutors also rely on 911 audio tapes and medical records detailing injuries. Statements from neighbors or family members can also establish a timeline of the fight. Challenging how the police found or handled this evidence is a key part of your defense.
Take advantage of experienced counsel
When you fight the federal government, the stakes are incredibly high because federal courts do not offer parole and maintain a conviction rate above 95%. It can be beneficial to enlist the help of a trial-ready legal team. They can look for flaws in the case, challenge illegal digital spying and expose bad witness stories to break the prosecutor's case apart.
You only get one chance to hear a judge say "not guilty." Ask for help from a professional who knows how to fight for your future in the Middle District of Florida.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Offenses committed on federal land may lead to federal charges]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522722026-05-14T18:37:34Z2026-05-14T02:07:56ZFederal land exists throughout Florida in a surprising number of places. National parks, military bases, federal courthouses, post offices, federal office buildings, Veterans Affairs facilities and certain protected wildlife areas may all fall under federal jurisdiction. Locations such as Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park and military installations across the state may involve federal law enforcement authority.When an alleged criminal offense occurs on federal property, federal prosecutors are likely to take charge of the situation at issue. In Florida, crimes committed on federal land may lead to federal criminal charges, exposing defendants to aggressive investigations, stricter procedures and potentially severe penalties than they might otherwise face if they were prosecuted at the state level.
Why does federal jurisdiction over a case matter?
Even offenses that seem relatively minor can become federal matters depending on where they occur. Allegations involving assault, theft, drug possession, weapons violations, vandalism or disorderly conduct on federal property may trigger federal prosecution. Certain offenses involving federal employees, government property or protected areas may also risk enhanced penalties accordingly.Federal investigations are often conducted by agencies with substantial resources. Depending on the circumstances, agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, National Park Service or military investigators may become involved. Once a defendant is being prosecuted federally, the stakes of their case generally rise significantly. Federal courts generally follow the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which can lead to significant prison exposure depending on the offense and a defendant’s prior criminal history. Federal prosecutors also tend to pursue cases aggressively.As a result of these realities, anyone who is under investigation or charged with a federal offense should take the matter extremely seriously. Federal criminal cases often involve extensive evidence gathering, grand jury proceedings and more highly experienced prosecutors than a state case might. Therefore, if you have been accused of committing an offense on federal land in Florida, know that the time to speak with an experienced legal team is now. ]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Drunk driving stops must have a valid reason]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522702026-05-13T12:20:26Z2026-05-13T12:20:26ZMany people don’t realize that police officers need a valid reason to stop a vehicle. The reason must meet the standard of reasonable suspicion, which means that it must be something that a reasonable person would agree should result in a stop. This is a much lower standard than probable cause, but it’s still more than just a gut feeling or hunch.
There are many factors that can lead to reasonable suspicion, many of which are hazardous driving behaviors. Seeing a driver swerving between lanes, driving in a reckless manner or failing to stop at a traffic sign or signal are examples of what’s considered reasonable suspicion for a suspected drunk driving stop since those behaviors are associated with impaired driving.
What happens when the vehicle is stopped?
Once the officer pulls the vehicle over, they will ask for documentation and speak to the driver to try to find out what’s going on. During the conversation, they will look for signs about the situation. This includes trying to determine if the driver has the smell of alcohol on their breath or open containers in the vehicle. If the officer has reason to believe that the driver is impaired, they may ask them to take a field sobriety test or a roadside breath test to determine if there’s probable cause to conduct an arrest. Only a standardized field sobriety test, which includes a one-leg stand, walk-and-turn, and horizontal gaze nystagmus tests, is admissible in court, and roadside breath tests aren’t admissible in court. An arrest for drunk driving is possible if the officer finds probable cause to support that charge. At that point, the individual facing charges should evaluate their options for presenting a defense strategy. This could include a variety of options, such as calling the results of the tests into question, so it’s beneficial for them to discuss these with someone familiar with these matters. Because some options are time sensitive, swift attention to the drunk driving charge is critical.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[3 reasons white collar crimes are often federal offenses]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522692026-04-19T20:33:09Z2026-04-19T20:33:09Z1. Interstate activities
The jurisdiction for a criminal case largely depends on where the crime occurred. Offenses in the financial sector may involve a defendant physically present in Florida, but there could be victims impacted by the financial crime in numerous other states. Any significant criminal activity that involves interstate commerce or an interstate conspiracy is likely to trigger federal prosecution.
2. The use of federal infrastructure
Many of the most serious white collar criminal offenses involve the misuse of infrastructure for fraudulent financial purposes. For example, businesses may engage in widespread money laundering using transfers through the Federal Reserve.
Those engaging in wire fraud use telecommunication systems as part of their schemes to communicate with the people they target, putting them at risk of federal charges, even if everyone involved lives in the same zip code. The use of the mail system to distribute fraudulent marketing materials or as a means for parties to send checks could also constitute grounds for federal prosecution.
3. Investigations by federal agencies
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) may look into alleged white collar crimes. Even investigations that begin at the local or state level may eventually require the resources available to these large federal agencies.
Federal prosecution can be a much more complex process than state prosecution, and white collar defendants need experienced legal guidance in navigating the federal criminal courts. Securing that as soon as possible after learning about a federal investigation or pending charges can help people limit the risk of facing the worst consequences.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Super speeding in Florida: Why are police treating it differently now?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522462026-02-18T18:11:27Z2026-02-11T10:13:00ZThe new law turns extreme speeding into a criminal offense
Florida passed HB 351 mid 2025, which completely changed how the state handles extreme speeding. Previously, before this law, speeding was just a traffic ticket—an annoyance that cost you money but did not put you in jail. However, now, if you drive 50 mph or more over the posted limit, you face criminal charges.
For example, a first offense brings a $500 fine and up to 30 days behind bars. If it happens again within five years you are looking at six months in jail, $1,000 in fines and a one-year license suspension. As a result, this shift from civil infraction to criminal offense has caught many drivers off guard.
Police are actively targeting super speeders on major highways
Florida Highway Patrol and local law enforcement have ramped up their efforts to catch super speeders. You will see increased enforcement on major roads like I-4 and I-95, where officers use radar and aircraft to monitor speeds. Many drivers report getting pulled over for speeds they might have gotten away with before. Officers now treat these stops more seriously because they are investigating a potential crime, not just writing a ticket. The enforcement push aims to reduce deadly crashes caused by extreme speeding.
What happens during a super speeding traffic stop
When an officer pulls you over for super speeding, the interaction differs from a standard traffic stop. You should remember several key details:
The officer's name and badge number
The exact time and location of the stop
What the officer says about your speed and how they measured it
Any questions the officer asks you
Whether the officer searches your vehicle
Write down these details as soon as possible after the stop. Officers may ask for your license, registration and proof of insurance. In addition, they might also ask where you are going or why you were speeding. That said, you have the right to remain silent beyond providing your identification documents.
Know the law before you hit the road
Public roads require shared responsibility and awareness of current laws. While the penalties may seem harsh, knowing these changes helps you avoid serious consequences. If you are facing super speeding charges, getting legal advice early can help protect your driving privileges and your record. Most importantly, do not let one mistake derail your future.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Is bail an option when facing federal charges?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522452026-01-30T18:49:42Z2026-01-30T18:49:42ZCan a local bondsman help?
In the Florida state court, defendants often see a bondsman, pay 10%, and head home. In the federal system, that neon-signed office across from the jail is rarely your first stop. While federal law allows for corporate surety bonds, they are the exception, not the rule.
Instead of paying a fixed bail amount for your freedom, you deal with "pretrial release." A federal judge, not a computer or a clerk, decides if you can go home. The federal system focuses on "conditions" rather than just cash. The judge could release you on your own signature or require strict GPS monitoring and travel bans.
Federal strategy to keep you in custody
The federal detention hearing is where most people realize the gravity of their situation. Government lawyers often fight to keep you behind bars until your trial ends. They will scrutinize your entire history to label you a "flight risk" or a "danger to the community."
Under the Bail Reform Act, the court is generally required to prioritize release for many crimes. However, the feds trigger a "presumption of detention" for specific high-stakes charges, such as:
Drug trafficking offenses that carry a maximum term of 10 years or more
Certain felonies involving firearms or destructive devices
Specific crimes involving the exploitation of minors or terrorism
When these categories apply, the judge starts by assuming you should stay in jail. You and your defense attorney must then work aggressively to prove why you present no risk to the public. One hearing determines if you spend the next year in a cell or on your couch.
High stakes and heavy sentences
The federal system operates with calculated precision designed to deliver results. Federal prosecutors maintain a conviction rate exceeding 95%, largely because they rarely bring cases they aren't confident they can win. With brutal mandatory minimum sentences on the table, the pretrial stage is the only window to protect your freedom.
Facing these odds requires more than just a standard defense; it demands a strategic, aggressive approach to dismantle the government's case before it takes root. Having a skilled criminal defense lawyer who understands how the federal system operates is the best way to safeguard your rights against a system built to favor the prosecution.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Who might be at risk of federal mortgage fraud charges?]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522442026-01-26T16:04:11Z2026-01-26T16:04:11Z1. Mortgage brokers
Professionals helping their clients secure mortgages sometimes encourage fraudulent conduct. They might coach aspiring buyers to misrepresent their finances by reporting assets or income they do not actually have. They may overlook inaccuracies in paperwork. Getting paid on a commission basis can inspire mortgage brokers to bend the rules in some cases or ignore clear rule violations other times.
2. Real estate investors
People seeking to purchase real property as an investment might commit mortgage fraud by claiming they intend to occupy a property when the real goal is to rent it out to others for income. Other times, people flipping homes could face accusations of mortgage fraud because they misrepresent their intent or exaggerate their financial circumstances to qualify for better mortgage terms. The details on a mortgage application can prove that fraud occurred. Anyone securing multiple mortgages in close proximity to one another could be at risk of financial and legal scrutiny, especially if they eventually default.
3. Buyers who cannot qualify
Not all mortgage fraud occurs due to a desire for profit. Some people end up accused of fraud because they desperately want to become owners instead of renters. Strict rules regarding income and other eligibility standards may inspire people to misrepresent their circumstances or even lie about their income to mortgage lenders. Especially if they eventually default on the mortgage, those who lie to acquire a mortgage for housing could be vulnerable to prosecution.
Responding assertively to accusations of mortgage fraud is critical for the protection of those accused of lying to obtain a mortgage. The advocacy of a lawyer familiar with federal white-collar criminal charges can be important for those responding to pending mortgage fraud accusations accordingly.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Corey I. Cohen & Associates<![CDATA[Florida cracks down on covered plates and the fines are intense]]>https://www.coreycohen.com/?p=522402025-12-03T09:13:13Z2025-12-03T09:13:13ZIn Florida, shifts on the road often bring quick changes to the law. A rule that took effect January 1, 2024, now changes how the state treats covered or altered license plates. Many drivers bought tinted covers or camera‑blocking gadgets without thinking twice. Now those same items can trigger criminal charges instead of simple tickets.
Florida Statute § 320.061 (as amended by HB 253, passed in 2023) increases penalties for altering, hiding or blocking a license plate. The law covers buying, possessing, selling or using any device that affects plate visibility. This includes tinted covers, plate‑flipping mechanisms, blurring frames and sprays marketed to defeat red‑light or speed cameras.
What Florida’s updated penalties mean for drivers
The new penalties feel strict because state officials want every plate readable at a glance. A basic obstruction now counts as a second-degree misdemeanor with possible jail time. That affects drivers who commute daily or depend on their car for work since even minor visibility issues can lead to bigger problems during a stop.Before you start shopping for devices online, know that the law focuses on how the plate reads from different angles. Florida wants the plate clear from behind, from above and from the side. That shift makes many popular products risky to use in your car. Here is a quick reference for drivers:
Possession alone can lead to a second-degree misdemeanor (for example, buying or possessing a plate-hiding device can lead to 60 days in jail).
Manufacturing a plate-hiding device can bring harsher penalties, potentially up to one year in jail.
Selling or distributing devices can face a first-degree misdemeanor charge.
Using a device while committing another crime elevates the charge to a third-degree felony with up to five years in prison (for example, hiding a plate while fleeing a crime).
Altering the plate or sticker may result in second-degree misdemeanor charges.
Using red or blue lights to impersonate an officer can be a third-degree felony.
These tougher penalties show how serious Florida is about plate visibility, and they raise real stakes for anyone who relies on their car daily.
What you should do now
A tinted plate cover might seem harmless until an officer sees glare from an angle that blocks the numbers. That one moment can cost you time, money and your freedom. Check your plate in different lighting and viewing angles and remove anything that obscures the numbers. If you are unsure whether a device or frame meets the law, talk with an attorney who knows Florida traffic rules. This way, you can stay compliant and avoid any issues on the road.]]>