The Most Common Offenses Committed on University Campuses
Going off to college is an exciting time in a young adult’s life. For many, it means leaving the only hometown they have ever known and experiencing a culture of new, sometimes seemingly-illogical rules, social mores, and expectations. But one constant issue on campuses across the nation is the issue of crime. Just like in neighborhoods urban and rural in Florida and the rest of the United States, students on campus can be victims of crimes committed by their classmates and campus outsiders. Students can also be accused of criminal offenses they did not commit. If you find yourself in this situation involving any of the offenses listed below or another alleged offense, start working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Burglary
Burglary, the unauthorized entry of a building or portion of a building with the intention of committing a crime, is the most common crime reported on college campuses. Generally, burglary is committed with the intention of committing theft.
Motor Vehicle Theft
Motor vehicle theft is another commonly-reported offense on college campuses. This is the theft or attempted theft of a car or other vehicle, which can occur on campuses where a large number of student park. Motor vehicle theft can be done with the aid of a weapon, known as a carjacking, or by stealing the vehicle owner’s keys or even “hot-wiring” a vehicle to steal it.
Forcible Sexual Assault
Forcible sexual assault includes all sexual offenses that are committed against victims who do not or cannot give their consent. This can include rape, fondling, and sexual assault with an object. Victims who are drunk or under the influence of drugs are unable to give consent even if they appear to be willing participants in a sexual act, which can make it difficult to determine whether an incident was, in fact, an act of sexual assault or not during an investigation.
Other Offenses
Other offenses that can occur on college campuses are offenses that can occur anywhere. Hate crimes, assault, drug possession, underage drinking, and robbery can all occur in dormitories and other campus buildings. Minor offenses like underage drinking are often dealt with internally, with college officials giving students penalties like fines and suspensions of their on-campus housing privileges. Other offenses can require the involvement of an on-campus or local police force. On-campus police forces are real police forces and have the power to conduct investigations and make arrests on the campuses they serve.
Work with a Miami Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are a college student facing a criminal charge, you need to do all that you can to defend your case. Otherwise, you can face issues with continuing your college career and finding employment in the future. Protect yourself and invest in your future by working with a member of our team of Miami defense lawyers at Ratzan & Faccidomo, LLC. Contact our firm today to schedule your free legal consultation with us.
