Florida law takes gang-related allegations extremely seriously. A conviction involving criminal gang activity can lead to enhanced sentencing, extended prison terms, and long-term damage to your reputation. Even minor offenses can carry harsher penalties if prosecutors claim a gang connection.
At Roussos Law Group, we provide strategic defense for individuals accused of gang-related crimes throughout Florida. Our team understands how prosecutors attempt to link ordinary criminal cases to organized activity — and how to challenge those claims effectively.
Under the Florida Criminal Gang Prevention Act (§§ 874.03 – 874.06), a criminal gang is defined as a group of three or more individuals who, through ongoing association, engage in a pattern of criminal activity.
Prosecutors often allege “gang involvement” to justify enhanced penalties under § 775.084 (habitual offender and reclassification provisions).
Common gang-related offenses include:
Gang-related designations can raise an offense level, increase sentencing points, and limit eligibility for probation or early release.
Prosecutors rely on law-enforcement gang units, intelligence databases, and confidential informants to establish a link between the accused and an alleged gang. Our criminal defense lawyers understand how the State attempts to prove these connections — and where those efforts often fall short.
Common evidence used in gang cases includes:
Our firm scrutinizes every claim of gang affiliation to ensure the evidence meets Florida’s strict legal definition of organized criminal activity.
Accusations of gang involvement often rely on speculation or association rather than hard proof. At Roussos Law Group, we focus on dismantling those assumptions and protecting your constitutional rights.
Common defense strategies may include:
We combine detailed factual analysis with a firm understanding of the prosecution’s methods to provide a focused, strategic defense.
Convictions involving gang enhancements under §874.04 or §775.084 can dramatically increase penalties.
Potential consequences include:
Because gang-related convictions carry additional legal and social consequences, it’s essential to involve an experienced defense attorney early in the process.
This information is provided for general educational purposes and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Always consult an attorney for guidance on your specific case.
Under §874.03, a gang must have at least three members with a common name or symbol and engage in a pattern of criminal activity.
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It can. Posts, photos, or messages may be used to allege gang association, though they must meet evidentiary standards and show intent, not mere expression.
No. The State must prove gang membership and that the alleged crime was committed to benefit, promote, or further a gang’s interests.
No. Felony convictions with gang enhancements are not eligible for record sealing or expungement under Florida law.
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Under §874.03, a gang must have at least three members with a common name or symbol and engage in a pattern of criminal activity.
{cdla2}
It can. Posts, photos, or messages may be used to allege gang association, though they must meet evidentiary standards and show intent, not mere expression.
No. The State must prove gang membership and that the alleged crime was committed to benefit, promote, or further a gang’s interests.
No. Felony convictions with gang enhancements are not eligible for record sealing or expungement under Florida law.
