Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu
Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyer
FREE Consultations Available
813-217-5715
TAMPA
Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyers > Blog > Criminal Defense > Barr Issues Instructions to Federal Prosecutors: Charge Violent Protesters

Barr Issues Instructions to Federal Prosecutors: Charge Violent Protesters

FedCrime2

Attorney General William Barr spent much of the third week in September reaching out to federal prosecutors all across the U.S., including Tampa. He instructed federal prosecutors in these areas to step up efforts to crack down on “violent” protesters.

This comes after President Donald Trump sent federal agents into areas like Portland and Chicago after weeks of violence amid the George Floyd protests. The Administration appears to be asking federal prosecutors to file federal charges against protesters even when there are state charges for the same crime.

For some demonstrators, federal charges will result in a longer prison sentence as federal sentencing guidelines tend to be more severe than their counterparts at the state level.

What Did the Federal Government Do in Chicago? 

The President sent federal agents including FBI agents into urban Chicago after the protests. The mission, known as Operation Legend, is still happening with mixed results. Once the feds came into Chicago, they dismantled a violent street gang called the Black Disciples. This gave them a very visible media victory even when Mayor Laurie Lightfoot appeared dismissive of the Administration’s efforts to lend a hand.

Since then, the arrests have been more pedestrian. One man was arrested on a federal weapons charge after police noted his vehicle was parked more than 12 inches from the curb. He is facing charges for being a felon in possession of a weapon.

More Than 300 Arrests 

The Trump Administration has claimed that “thousands” of Americans were arrested during Operation Legend, but that number is closer to 300 (and rising) as of the writing of this article. While some of these charges are related to looting and arson, other charges seem far less in keeping with what the Administration is asking, leading some to believe that the Administration is attempting to stifle political dissent.

In one instance, a 12-year-old boy was charged with civil disorder after he made a Facebook post that said, “we are not each other’s enemy, only enemy is 12.” Twelve is a reference to law enforcement.

While some of the charges appear on the surface to merit the aggressiveness of the federal government, not all of them do.

Why Federal Charges are Bad 

Federal prosecutions and related sentencings are governed by complex sentencing guidelines, while state prosecutions generally have more room for leniency. Florida has a flexible system that allows judges to impose a lower sentence if certain mitigating circumstances are present. It is a well-known fact that most criminal defendants in federal court receive a prison sentence instead of probation.

Several attorneys for Operation Legend defendants believe their clients are being railroaded, overcharged, and harmed by the Administration’s heavy-handed efforts to handle civil unrest at the protests.

Talk to a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

The Matassini Law Firm has significant trial experience in both state and federal courts. You need a Tampa criminal attorney who is comfortable going to trial in federal court. Call today to learn more.

Resources:

tampabay.com/news/nation-world/2020/09/17/barr-pushes-federal-charges-for-protesters-so-far-the-total-is-more-than-300/

abc7chicago.com/operation-legend-chicago-crime-in/6399727/

https://www.matassinilaw.com/former-south-florida-congresswoman-under-federal-investigation/

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

The experience you need in your pursuit of justice

The greatest distinguishing feature among attorneys is their level of experience. Our firm has more than 60 years of legal experience, much of it spent in the courtroom at trial. As a result, our Tampa criminal defense lawyers rarely encounter an unfamiliar situation and can thoroughly answer your urgent questions. Our criminal defense practice features a board certified criminal trial lawyer and two former prosecutors with impressive knowledge of trial tactics and procedures.

The resources to provide quality representation for the length of your case

Whether your case involves a crime or injury, your attorney must be prepared to take the case all the way through trial to verdict. Many defense attorneys advance the cost of litigation, so they can only last so long before financial pressures start to mount. As a client, you have to wonder whether an attorney's advice to settle your case reflects the quality of the offer or their need to get paid. Fortunately, The Matassini Law Firm has the resources to pursue civil verdicts and settlements that reflect the actual value of your case.

Call our Tampa Bay criminal attorneys for a free consultation

A crisis in your life calls for capable and compassionate assistance. The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. addresses your needs all the way through the legal process. For your free initial confidential conference with one of our Tampa criminal defense attorneys, call us today at 813-217-5715 or contact us online.

Share This Page:
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
888-377-0011
Toll Free
813-217-5715
Tampa
2811 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, Florida 33609
GET DRIVING DIRECTIONS
+