Violent Crimes Increase During Pandemic
Concerns over COVID-19 continue to dominate headlines and impact many of our daily activities. Frustration due to pandemic-related restrictions and differing viewpoints regarding how the problem should be handled has resulted in a general overall increase in assaults and other aggressive behaviors. Violent crime rates are up for 2020 and while current issues may be partially to blame, you could still find yourself facing serious criminal charges as a result.
Anger and Frustration Over Current Events Causing People To Be More Aggressive
COVID-19 has disrupted many of our daily activities. It has resulted in:
- Business closures and job losses;
- Increased burdens on parents who have to supervise children in virtual classes;
- Increased isolation from family and friends.
Some people are overwhelmed by fears of contracting the virus and having to tend to sick family members. Others are seething over what they claim is an overblown situation and needless restrictions. Unfortunately, Harvard researchers report that tension surrounding the issue combined with other problems occurring on a national level have caused people to act out and get more aggressive.
Online battles over perceived problems our country faces have been raging for years but 2020 is causing them to spill over into real life. In September, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a news release showing that instances of assault and other violent crimes have risen roughly 15 percent over the previous six months. People are getting into altercations at home, in neighborhoods, at local stores, and in other public places. Even if it does not resort to physical violence, you can still face assault charges as a result.
Defenses To Assault Charges In Florida
Under the Florida Statutes, you can be charged with assault as a result of making intentional threats against others or taking actions to harm them in some way. Even if you did not cause actual physical injuries, you could be charged with simple assault, a misdemeanor offense that carries fines of up to $500 and up to a six month jail sentence. In more serious cases, you could face charges of aggravated assault, which carry a $5,000 fine and up to a five year jail sentence. This is in addition to any community service or anger management classes required by the court, as well any restitution you may be ordered to pay to the victim.
If you are facing any type of assault charge in Daytona Beach or have been accused of another type of violent crime, it is important to contact our criminal defense attorneys immediately. Possible defenses to assault include:
- You were acting in self-defense;
- You were attempting to defend others or your property;
- You are the victim of false allegations;
- You lacked the intent to cause harm to the victim;
- It is a case of mistaken identity.
Reach Out to Us Today for Help
When facing assault charges, you need a strong legal defense. To protect yourself, get Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. on your side. Call or contact our Daytona Beach violent crimes attorneys online and request a consultation today.
Resource:
fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/overview-of-preliminary-uniform-crime-report-january-june-2020
news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/08/a-closer-look-at-americas-pandemic-fueled-anger/
