WEST PALM BEACH, Florida — Criminal Defense Attorney Ron Chapman alerts Floridians to a significant change in state law that will take effect on October 1, 2025. Under Florida Senate Bill 1168 (SB 1168), the unlawful use of tracking devices in connection with violent or sexual crimes will be upgraded from a third-degree felony to a second-degree felony, increasing the maximum prison sentence from 5 years to 15 years.
“This is a serious legislative shift that raises the stakes significantly for anyone accused of using technology in connection with violent or sexual criminal acts,” said Chapman, who has been defending individuals charged with criminal offenses in Palm Beach County and throughout South Florida for over 30 years.
The new law, passed unanimously by Florida legislators, specifically targets those who unlawfully install tracking devices—such as GPS trackers, phone apps, or other surveillance tools in connection with or in furtherance of violent or sexual crimes. Previously considered a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison, this offense will now fall under the more severe category of a second-degree felony, carrying a potential 15-year prison sentence and up to $10,000 in fines.
According to Chapman, there are vast implications with this legal upgrade. “The rise in use of technology in personal relationships, business disputes, and domestic matters has already led to a significant number of criminal charges involving tracking devices,” he explained. “Now, if prosecutors can tie the use of that device to a violent or sexual offense, the defendant faces much more serious penalties even before addressing the underlying charges.”
SB 1168 reflects growing concerns among lawmakers and the public regarding privacy violations and stalking behaviors that leverage inexpensive or hidden technology. However, Chapman cautions that these laws can also be misapplied or misunderstood in emotionally charged situations.
“Many people aren’t even aware that installing a tracking app on a spouse’s phone or putting a GPS device on a car without consent can result in felony charges, let alone ones that carry up to 15 years in prison under certain circumstances,” he added.
Chapman advises anyone under investigation or facing charges involving surveillance technology to seek experienced legal counsel immediately.
“Don’t wait. The earlier a criminal defense lawyer gets involved, the better chance you have of building a strong defense, understanding your rights, and handling what can quickly become a life-altering prosecution,” Chapman said.
For more information about SB 1168 or to schedule a confidential consultation, contact Ron Chapman, P.A. at (561) 832-4348 or visit https://justiceflorida.com.
Ron Chapman has 35 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer. He represents people accused of committing a wide range of crimes in both State and Federal Court in Florida. Those crimes include DUI, battery, economic crimes such as theft and dealing in stolen property, animal abuse, traffic crimes such as reckless driving, murder, manslaughter, crimes against children, federal crimes involving guns and drugs, crimes against the elderly, appeals, and violations of probation.
If you or someone you know requires the assistance of a proven criminal defense attorney, look no further than the law firm of Ronald S. Chapman. Call him today at (561) 832-4348 or visit his website at https://www.justiceflorida.com/. His professional team is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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