Expert: Jim Pastore - 6/15/2006

Question
Mr. Pastore,
I have a question about 3 strike laws. I was going to press charges against somebody for an aggravated assualt a few months ago but the suspect fled. He was arrested in South Carolina this past week and is back in Florida in a state prison arrested for a situation unrelated to mine. He has 2 prior felonies and if convicted on this other charge then he will have 3. If I understand correctly, Florida has a 3 strike law so if convicted on this 3rd felony wouldn't he get the maximum sentence? Im wondering becuase I don't live in Florida and it would be hard for me to get down there to take the case to court but I want him to be in prison. Im thinking that if his new case were to fall through and he isnt convicted then I can bring my case to court. I know this is a different state then where you are but I am wondering if you know anything about this and if this is possible?
Thanks,
Stephanie

Answer
Stephanie,

    I live in Florida now but I was a Police Officer in Ohio. I'm really not sure about Florida law. If I were you I would contact the States attorney's office in the county in Florida where this happened. I'm sure you can speak with them without giving your name or anything. I wish I could be of more help. If there is anything else I can do for you just ask.

Jim