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USF Arrest Attorney University Police Department ( UTPD USF PD)
Defending University of South Florida Students and Visitors Facing Arrests
Introduction: Legal Help for USF and University Police Department Arrests
If you or your loved one was arrested by the University Police Department (USF PD) at the University of South Florida (USF), it’s critical to contact an experienced USF Arrest criminal defense lawyer immediately. These arrests can lead to charges ranging from DUI and drug possession to battery, theft, or resisting arrest — all carrying serious consequences for your academic career and future.
Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. is a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer who defends USF students, visitors, and faculty charged with crimes investigated by USFPD or other campus police agencies.
📞 Contact Casey Ebsary Today
👤 Learn About Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.
🎥 Watch USF Arrest: What to Do If You Are Arrested by University Police
College Student Arrest YouTube Video Here
➡️ https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JJFxaVOe3IY
Legal Strategies for Defending a USF Arrest
- Motion to Suppress Evidence – Challenge illegal stops or searches.
- Review of Body Camera Footage – Expose inconsistencies or officer errors.
- Witness Interviews – Secure statements from other students or bystanders.
- Negotiation with Prosecutors – Seek reduced or dismissed charges.
- Sealing or Expungement – Protect your record from background checks.
Each case is different, but Attorney Casey Ebsary tailors every defense to the student’s academic and personal future.
Common Crimes Defended by USF Arrest Attorney Casey Ebsary for Student Arrest USFPD Arrests
| Category | Common Charges | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| DUI / Traffic | DUI, Fleeing to Elude, Reckless Driving | License suspension, jail time, student conduct sanctions |
| Drug Offenses | Possession, Delivery, Marijuana, Prescription Fraud | Felony or misdemeanor convictions, loss of scholarships |
| Violent Crimes | Battery, Assault, Domestic Violence | Jail time, permanent criminal record |
| Property Crimes | Theft, Burglary, Criminal Mischief | Restitution, probation, or incarceration |
| Campus & Student Issues | Underage Drinking, Disorderly Conduct, Fake ID | Academic discipline, expulsion, fines |
| Computer & Tech Crimes | Cyberstalking, Hacking, Online Harassment | Felony charges, permanent record |
| Weapons Charges | Concealed Carry Violations, Gun Possession on Campus | Mandatory minimums, felony exposure |
Each of these offenses can derail your education, employment prospects, and even your immigration status. Having an attorney who understands both Florida criminal procedure and campus police jurisdiction is vital.
Understanding the University Police Department (USFPD)
The University Police Department (USFPD) has the same authority as any municipal or county police agency under Florida Statutes §1012.97. Their officers are sworn law enforcement personnel who can conduct stops, searches, and arrests both on and around university property.
However, USFPD officers often deal with first-time offenders — including students unfamiliar with the criminal process. Attorney Casey Ebsary helps ensure that procedural errors, overreaching searches, and constitutional violations are fully challenged in court.
⚖️ Chart: Where USFPD Arrests Are Prosecuted
| Location of Arrest | Jurisdiction | Court |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus (Tampa Main Campus) | Hillsborough County | 13th Judicial Circuit Court |
| Off-campus within Tampa city limits | Tampa Police / USFPD joint jurisdiction | County Court |
| Near university housing / Greek Row | Hillsborough County Sheriff or USFPD | County or Circuit Court |
| Medical campus (Downtown Tampa) | USFPD / TPD task force | County or Circuit Court |
Why Choose Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.
- Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer by The Florida Bar
- Former State Prosecutor — knows how the State builds its case
- Extensive experience with college student defense and DUI cases
- Creator and lead attorney at DUI2Go.com, focused exclusively on DUI and related criminal charges
- Over 20 years defending clients in Tampa and Hillsborough County
📞 Schedule Your Consultation Today
Infographic: The 5-Step Process After a USFPD Arrest
1️⃣ Arrest or Citation Issued by USFPD
2️⃣ Booking or Notice to Appear in Court
3️⃣ Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
4️⃣ Case Investigation & Evidence Review
5️⃣ Court Appearance, Negotiation, or Trial
Top 10 Questions and Answers: USF PD Arrest Defense
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What should I do if I’m arrested by USFPD? | Stay calm, remain silent, and ask for an attorney. Do not give statements to university police without legal counsel present. |
| 2. Will the university be notified of my arrest? | Yes, typically USF’s Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity is notified of all arrests involving students. This can lead to parallel disciplinary actions. |
| 3. Can I be charged both by the university and by the state? | Yes. The university handles internal discipline while the State Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal cases. Both can occur simultaneously. |
| 4. What are common DUI penalties for USF students? | Penalties may include up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fines, license suspension, and required alcohol education courses. See Florida Statute §316.193. |
| 5. How can a lawyer help with a USFPD arrest? | An attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate plea agreements, or have charges dismissed based on procedural errors. |
| 6. Can my USF Arrest be handled without me appearing in court? | For some misdemeanor charges, your lawyer may appear on your behalf, sparing you the stress of attending court personally. |
| 7. What happens if I’m not a student but was arrested on campus? | You are still subject to the same Florida criminal statutes as anyone else. The case is prosecuted in Hillsborough County courts. |
| 8. Can I be expelled for a USF arrest? | Yes. Even without a conviction, the university may impose discipline under its Code of Conduct. Early legal representation helps minimize risks. |
| 9. Are USFPD officers required to read Miranda rights? | Yes. If they conduct custodial interrogation, Miranda warnings must be given. Failure to do so can lead to evidence suppression. |
| 10. How soon should I contact a lawyer after a USF arrest? | Immediately. Delays can harm your defense strategy and limit opportunities for pre-filing intervention. Contact Casey Here. |
Chart: Comparing Campus Police and City Police
| Factor | USFPD (Campus Police) | Tampa Police Department |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | University grounds and surrounding areas | Entire City of Tampa |
| Primary Focus | Student safety, campus regulations | Public safety, criminal enforcement |
| Common Charges | DUI, Theft, Disorderly Conduct, Drugs | DUIs, Felonies, Traffic, Violent Crimes |
| Reporting Chain | University Administration | City of Tampa Government |
| Court Venue | Hillsborough County Courts | Hillsborough County Courts |
Table: Potential Penalties for Common USF Arrest and Charges
| Offense | Statute Reference | Max Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| DUI | §316.193 | 6 months jail / $1,000 fine |
| Possession of Marijuana | §893.13 | 1 year jail / $1,000 fine |
| Battery | §784.03 | 1 year jail / $1,000 fine |
| Petit Theft | §812.014 | 1 year jail / $1,000 fine |
| Resisting Arrest | §843.02 | 1 year jail / $1,000 fine |
Don’t Let a Campus USF Arrest Define Your Future
Every moment after a USFPD arrest counts. Whether it’s a DUI, drug offense, or campus conduct violation, the outcome can shape your career and reputation.
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📍 Serving USF Students, Faculty, and Visitors in Tampa and Hillsborough County.
Expungement and Record Sealing for USF Arrest Cases
Florida law allows certain first-time offenders to seal or expunge their criminal records under §943.0585 and §943.059. This process can protect you from background checks that affect scholarships, jobs, and graduate school applications.
Attorney Casey Ebsary has helped countless students restore their reputations through expungement after successful case resolutions.
Speak with a Board-Certified Defense Attorney Today
Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. is ready to defend your rights. Whether you were cited for a DUI, possession, or resisting arrest, his experience and knowledge can make a crucial difference in your case.
📞 Call (813) 222-2220
💬 Contact Casey Now
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Conclusion
Being arrested by the University Police Department (USFPD) doesn’t have to end your academic or professional journey. With the right representation, it’s possible to mitigate penalties, protect your record, and move forward with confidence. Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., with decades of courtroom experience and a deep understanding of campus-related criminal cases, stands ready to defend you.
Schedule Your Confidential Case Review Today
or call (813) 222-2220 for immediate help.