The Total Picture: Why the ‘Totality of the Circumstances’ is Your Best Defense Against Unlawful Search and Seizure

In criminal defense, virtually every case hinges on the Fourth Amendment and whether law enforcement overstepped its bounds in gathering evidence against you. The constitutional test for justifying a search is a robust one: the totality of the circumstances. This means that courts must look at the “whole picture” of the facts leading to a search and seizure, avoiding reliance on any single, isolated fact.

A recent, critically important en banc decision from Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal—Darrielle Ortiz Williams v. State of Florida—affirms this commitment to the totality-of-the-circumstances standard by eliminating an outdated exception to the probable cause requirement.

The case involved an appeal of a probation revocation following a traffic stop where the officers based their entire search only on the smell of cannabis. While the court ultimately affirmed Mr. Williams’s revocation (due to a complex legal doctrine protecting officers who reasonably relied on the old law), the court’s core holding marks a seismic shift in Florida Fourth Amendment jurisprudence: The plain smell doctrine, standing alone, is dead.

The court emphasized that the US Supreme Court has “consistently eschewed bright-line rules” in favor of a fact-specific, reasonable inquiry. Because the odor of cannabis no longer means an illegal substance is immediately apparent—due to the legality of medical marijuana and hemp—the smell alone cannot justify a search. This ruling reinforces the idea that your freedom depends not on a simple “litmus-paper test” but on a thorough review of all the facts available to the officer at the time of the stop. If the totality of those circumstances doesn’t meet the probable cause standard, the evidence must be suppressed.

The Cornerstone of Freedom: The Fourth Amendment

The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution is arguably the most vital shield citizens possess against government overreach. It establishes the foundational right: “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated…” The Amendment does not prohibit all searches and seizures, only unreasonable ones, which is where the requirement for probable cause comes into play. The recent legal debate surrounding the smell of cannabis highlights the fragility of this right when courts allow “bright-line” rules to replace the robust, comprehensive inquiry mandated by the Fourth Amendment.

A “Traditional Contextual Approach”: The Totality of the Circumstances

The governing standard for determining probable cause—the benchmark against which every warrantless search must be measured—is the totality of the circumstances. This standard, reaffirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court in landmark cases, actively rejects the imposition of rigid, overly technical, or “per se” rules. The whole point of the totality of the circumstances test is to encourage a magistrate (or a police officer in the field) to look at the “whole picture”—to consider all the available objective facts and inferences before concluding that a crime is likely being committed. The Williams court, in striking down the “plain smell” doctrine, directly and forcefully aligned itself with this higher constitutional standard.

The Failure of the Bright-Line Rule (Plain Smell)

For decades, the “plain smell” doctrine regarding cannabis operated as an almost perfect example of a dangerous and constitutionally deficient bright-line rule. The doctrine was justifiable only in a legal environment where all forms of cannabis were illegal contraband. With the legalization of industrial hemp (which is visually and olfactorily indistinguishable from illegal cannabis) and legally prescribed medical marijuana, the odor of cannabis became ambiguous. The Williams court recognized this constitutional erosion, ruling that because the odor no longer means the substance is “immediately apparent” as contraband, the per se rule had to be eliminated.

The New Analysis in Practice: Articulating Multiple, Objective Facts

The Williams ruling fundamentally changes the legal landscape for all criminal arrests stemming from vehicle searches in Tampa. Law enforcement officers can no longer rely on a simple statement of “I smelled cannabis.” They must now articulate multiple, objective facts—independent of the odor—that, when aggregated, meet the constitutional threshold for probable cause. The odor of cannabis is now treated similarly to other substances that have both legal and illegal uses, demanding a broader inquiry.

The Exclusionary Rule and Precedent (The Davis Exception)

The Exclusionary Rule holds that any evidence obtained as a result of an illegal search (a search that violated the Fourth Amendment) must be excluded, or suppressed, from being used against the defendant at trial. This is often referred to as the “Fruit of the Poisonous Tree” doctrine. It is important to note that the court affirmed Mr. Williams’s appeal due to the Davis Exception, meaning the ruling is prospective and applies only to all searches conducted on or after the date the opinion was issued: October 1, 2025.

Your Defense Strategy: Dissecting the Totality of the Circumstances

The totality of the circumstances standard is the criminal defense attorney’s greatest weapon. An experienced attorney will immediately scrutinize the arrest by challenging the officer’s “Additional Factors” and using Video Evidence Analysis to prove that when all the facts are viewed, they fail to establish a fair probability of crime, thereby invalidating the entire search and seizure. The immediate need for defense attorneys is to file a Motion to Suppress Evidence in all applicable post-Williams cases.

Q&A Section: Applying the New Totality of the Circumstances Standard

Q1: If the police smell cannabis after the Williams ruling (October 1, 2025), is the search always illegal?

A: No. The smell of cannabis is still a relevant factor that law enforcement can consider as part of their investigation. The search is only illegal if the odor of cannabis was the sole factor used to establish probable cause. If the officer can articulate sufficient additional evidence—such as erratic driving, observed illegal drug paraphernalia, or admission of possessing illegal contraband—then the totality of those circumstances will likely justify the search.

Q2: What is the core reason the court struck down the “plain smell” doctrine?

A: The court recognized that legislative changes legalized certain forms of cannabis, specifically medical marijuana and industrial hemp. Since legal and illegal forms smell the same, the odor alone is no longer an “unambiguous signal” of criminal activity. This ambiguity means the smell fails to meet the legal standard of probable cause when considered in isolation.

Q3: What exactly is “probable cause” in a legal context?

A: Probable cause is the constitutional threshold for a search or arrest. It is defined as a fair probability that contraband or evidence of a crime will be found in a particular place. Crucially, it requires more evidence than a mere hunch or suspicion, but less evidence than the proof needed to convict a person at trial.

Q4: How does the “totality of the circumstances” standard differ from the “bright-line” rule?

A: The “bright-line” rule (like “plain smell”) was a shortcut that allowed one single factor to automatically establish probable cause. The “totality of the circumstances” standard, however, requires the court to look at the “whole picture,” considering every single fact the officer knew to make a practical, common-sense judgment. It prevents law enforcement from relying on any one factor too heavily.

Q5: What are examples of the “additional factors” officers now need to justify a search?

A: Beyond the odor, officers must articulate objective facts such as observing the driver making furtive movements (attempts to hide something), exhibiting erratic driving that suggests impairment, or finding paraphernalia clearly associated with illegal drug use. Simply smelling cannabis is now just the starting point, not the conclusion, of the probable cause analysis.

Q6: Does this new ruling help me if my cannabis-related arrest was before October 1, 2025?

A: Unfortunately, likely not. The court applied the Davis Exception, which protects police officers who were reasonably relying on the old, binding law at the time of your arrest. The Williams ruling is prospective and only creates grounds for challenging searches that occurred on or after the ruling date of October 1, 2025.

Q7: What is the “Exclusionary Rule,” and why is it important to this ruling?

A: The Exclusionary Rule is the enforcement mechanism of the Fourth Amendment. It dictates that any evidence obtained as a result of an illegal or unconstitutional search must be excluded from use in court. This rule is crucial because if the search was illegal under the new Williams standard, the evidence (the drugs) must be suppressed, often leading to the dismissal of the case.

Q8: What is a “Motion to Suppress Evidence,” and when should it be filed?

A: A Motion to Suppress is a formal request to the court asking the judge to exclude certain evidence because it was obtained in violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights (like the Fourth Amendment). It must be filed immediately in post-Williams cases where the search was based primarily on the odor of cannabis.

Q9: Does the Williams ruling apply statewide across Florida?

A: Currently, the ruling is binding law only within the jurisdiction of the Second District Court of Appeal (which includes Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and other counties). However, the Second DCA certified a question of great public importance to the Florida Supreme Court, meaning the Supreme Court may eventually review the case and make the ruling statewide.

Q10: What role does video evidence (like BWC footage) play in this new standard?

A: Video evidence is now paramount. It serves as an impartial check on the officer’s claim of “additional factors.” Your attorney will use BWC footage to confirm or deny if the driver was truly erratic or if the officer genuinely saw “furtive movements,” often dismantling the subjective claims needed to meet the Totality of the Circumstances standard.

ATF Form 4473 and Federal Marijuana Laws

Navigating the intersection of state cannabis laws and federal firearms regulations has long been one of the most frustrating, high-stakes traps for gun owners and Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs). In states like Florida, where medical marijuana has been legal since 2016, millions of law-abiding citizens have found themselves caught in a direct conflict between state-authorized medical treatments and federal gun rights.

At CentralLaw.com, we closely monitor these rapid changes to protect our clients from severe legal pitfalls. The legal landscape surrounding ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) is shifting rapidly. With the federal government’s recent rescheduling of medical marijuana to Schedule III and the ATF’s newly proposed draft revisions to Form 4473, understanding your current rights and liabilities is absolutely critical.

Making an error on this federal document is a serious matter. A single misstatement regarding cannabis use can expose an individual to federal felony charges carrying up to 15 years in prison, while putting licensed dealers at risk of losing their livelihoods. This guide breaks down exactly how federal marijuana laws impact your Second Amendment rights and answers ten of the most critical compliance questions.

The Legal Conflict: State Legality vs. Federal Prohibition

The core issue stems from the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause: when state and federal laws clash, federal law wins. Under the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), it is a federal crime for any person who is an “unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” to ship, transport, possess, or receive firearms or ammunition.

Historically, because the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) placed all cannabis in Schedule I, the federal government made no distinction between recreational use and state-authorized medical use. A cancer patient using state-licensed medical marijuana under a doctor’s care was treated exactly the same as an illicit drug user at the gun counter.

Severe Criminal Penalties

Falsifying answers on ATF Form 4473 to hide marijuana use is not a simple administrative oversight—it is a major federal crime. Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(a)(1)(A), knowingly making a false statement on a firearms record is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. For FFLs, ignoring a buyer’s known marijuana use or failing to properly execute the form constitutes a “willful violation,” which can result in the permanent revocation of their federal license.

https://www.atf.gov/media/18646/download

The Shift: Rescheduling and the New Draft Form 4473

The legal landscape shifted encounters dramatically following the federal administrative order moving state-regulated medical marijuana products from Schedule I to Schedule III. Because Schedule III substances can be legally possessed with a valid prescription or medical authorization under federal law, this change directly challenged the blanket ban on gun ownership for medical cannabis patients.
In response, the ATF published a draft revised Form 4473 in the Federal Register. This proposed update marks a massive shift in how the federal government treats medical cannabis patients, though it leaves strict prohibitions firmly in place for recreational users.

Visualizing the Evolving Cannabis Rules at the Gun Counter

10 Critical Questions and Answers: Cannabis and Gun Compliance

FFL Compliance Matrix: Navigating Cannabis Rules

Conclusion: Protecting Your Rights in a Changing Legal Environment

The intersection of gun ownership and cannabis law highlights the ongoing tension between evolving state realities and rigid federal regulations. While the federal reclassification of medical marijuana to Schedule III and the ATF’s proposed updates to Form 4473 point toward an accessible path for medical patients, the transition period requires careful legal compliance.

Clerical errors or a misunderstanding of timing can lead to severe criminal charges. Whether you are an individual gun owner navigating medical options or an FFL updating your retail compliance protocols, having experienced legal counsel is your best protection.

If you are facing compliance questions, audit concerns, or need clarity on your rights under the changing firearms laws, proactive legal representation is essential. Contact the team at CentralLaw.com today to schedule an in-depth consultation. We will help you navigate this shifting legal landscape with confidence and clarity.

In a fraud case that underscores the rising tide of harassment and threats targeting the American judiciary, a 50-year-old Zephyrhills man has been sentenced to nearly two years in prison for a targeted “pizza doxing” campaign against two Hillsborough County judges. Full disclosure, this was not a case of mine.

Jonathan Mark Miller admitted to weaponizing unwanted food deliveries as a form of harassment and intimidation, sending dozens of cash-on-delivery pizza orders to the private residences of the judges overseeing or linked to his legal matters. The targeted judges were forced to deal with an influx of delivery drivers at their homes, a tactic increasingly recognized by law enforcement as a modern mechanism for harassment and a veiled threat to public officials.

New Details From Hillsborough County Jail Records

While the state and federal interest in the case highlights national concerns over judicial safety, newly reviewed local booking records from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) reveal that Miller’s legal troubles extend far beyond the “pizza doxing” incident alone.

Miller was processed into the Falkenburg Road Jail on May 18, 2026, following court proceedings at the George Edgecomb Courthouse. The booking ledger outlines a strict sentence structure alongside substantial pending legal liabilities in neighboring jurisdictions:

Table of Charges and Immediate Consequences

Key Jail Record Takeaways:

• Active State Prison Commitment: Charges #5 and #6 represent the finalized local sentences stemming from the “pizza doxing” incident. The judge has ordered a specific sentence of 22.8 months in the Florida State Prison (FSP) system.
• The Pasco County Warrants: Totaling $160,000 in active bonds, Miller faces an entirely separate legal battle in neighboring Pasco County. This includes four identity theft charges and an exceptionally serious charge for False Report of Child Abuse, which carries a standalone $100,000 bond.
• Logistical Status: His status is marked as “Ready for Transfer, State Prison.” Because of the active “Hold for Pasco Co,” the Department of Corrections and local sheriffs will coordinate whether he is transported to state prison first or if he will be court-ordered to Pasco County to resolve those pending felony warrants first.

10 expert-focused Q&A on FRAU1171 and doxing offenses.

Deep Dive: Understanding Florida Charge Code FRAU1171

In Florida’s criminal justice system, the internal booking code FRAU1171 corresponds to the statutory Fraud offense of Fraudulent Use of Personal Information under Florida Statute § 817.568(2). This charge is commonly referred to as criminal identity theft.

Legal Definition and Elements of the Offense

To secure a conviction for this offense, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a person willfully and without authorization fraudulently used, or possessed with intent to fraudulently use, the “personal identification information” (PII) of another individual.

Under Florida law, PII includes names, addresses, telephone numbers, or digital identifiers. In the context of cyber-harassment or “doxing” campaigns, utilizing a target’s name, private home address, and telephone number to fraudulently initiate financial transactions—such as ordering cash-on-delivery services without their consent—directly fulfills the statutory elements of unauthorized, fraudulent use of PII.

Sentencing Guidelines and Penalties

As noted in the HCSO booking records, the basic form of this offense is classified as a Third-Degree Felony (indicated by the F3 class designation). Under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code, a Third-Degree Felony carries statutory maximum penalties of up to 5 years in Florida State Prison and a fine of up to $5,000 per count.

While a base conviction has no mandatory minimum prison sentence, Florida law imposes strict statutory enhancements based on the specific roles held by the victims. In the case of Miller, the judge utilized the sentencing guidelines to impose a precise sentence of 22.8 months in state prison, reflecting the court’s view of the structured and targeted nature of the identity deployment against judicial officers.

For a deeper look into the tactics used and the broader national implications for judicial security, read the full article on the Tampa Bay Times.

Excerpt from Original Article Text

After ‘pizza doxing’ Tampa judges, man gets nearly 2 years in prison

The George Edgecomb Courthouse in downtown Tampa is the headquarters for Florida’s 13th Judicial Circuit. Jonathan Mark Miller admitted sending pizza orders to the homes of two judges. The case is seen as part of a rise in threats against the judiciary.

Sources:

https://www.tampabay.com/news/crime/2026/05/19/hillsborough-judge-pizza-doxing-sentencing/

webapps.hcso.tampa.fl.us

Deciding how to handle a DUI charge is a critical decision. In this video, former prosecutor and Board Certified expert W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. discusses why the complexities of Florida’s DUI laws—from administrative driver’s license suspensions to mandatory ignition interlock devices—require a specialized defense strategy.

Why Professional Defense Matters:

• Challenge Breathalyzer and Field Sobriety Test results.
• Navigate the 10-day window for your driver’s license.
• Ensure your rights were protected during the traffic stop.

Connect with a Board Certified Expert

Navigating the High Stakes of Florida DUI Charges

A DUI conviction in Florida is more than a temporary setback; it carries mandatory penalties that can fundamentally alter your future. From the moment of arrest, the clock starts ticking on both your driving privileges and your criminal record. Florida law is notoriously rigid, often requiring mandatory community service, hefty fines, and the invasive installation of an ignition interlock device.

Deciding how to handle a DUI charge is a critical decision that requires more than just standard legal advice. In this video, former prosecutor and Board Certified Criminal Trial Expert W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. breaks down why a specialized defense is essential. The complexities of Florida’s DUI statutes—specifically the dual nature of administrative license suspensions and criminal prosecution—demand a strategy that addresses both the courtroom and the DMV.

With decades of experience, Casey provides insight into challenging breathalyzer results, evaluating roadside sobriety test procedures, and identifying law enforcement errors that could lead to a case dismissal or reduced charges. When your career, reputation, and freedom are on the line, leveraging the knowledge of a recognized expert is the most effective way to protect your rights and secure a clean slate.

Key Takeaways for Your Defense:

• Administrative Deadlines: You often have only 10 days to challenge a license suspension.
• Mandatory Minimums: Florida law leaves little room for leniency without a strategic defense.
• Expert Oversight: Why a Board Certified specialist sees details others might overlook.

Request a Free Case Evaluation

The window of opportunity to protect your record is often right after an arrest.

What We Cover:

• Reviewing police reports for constitutional violations.
• Identifying missing evidence early in the process.
• Negotiating with prosecutors to prevent formal charges from being filed.

Worthless Check – If you have been notified that a check you wrote has “bounced,” or if you are facing a criminal investigation under Florida Statute § 832.05, the situation is serious. In Florida, passing a worthless check isn’t just a civil debt issue—it is a crime that can range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony.

However, a “bad check” does not always equal a Worthless Check criminal conviction. Understanding the legal requirements from a defense perspective is the first step in protecting your rights.

Speak With an Experienced Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

I am W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, and I have defended individuals across Florida facing financial crime allegations—including worthless check charges. These cases often look simple on the surface but are filled with legal nuance, evidentiary weaknesses, and defenses that can make or break the outcome.

👉 Visit my bio: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/
👉 Contact me now: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/

Early intervention matters. I often resolve these cases before charges are even filed.

1. The Prosecution’s Burden: Intent and Knowledge

The most critical element the State must prove is intent to defraud. That means at the exact time you issued the check, you knew there were insufficient funds or the account was closed.

From my experience, this is where most cases fall apart for the prosecution.

An honest mistake—such as relying on a pending deposit, a bookkeeping error, or even confusion about account balances—can defeat the State’s case entirely. Criminal law does not punish negligence; it punishes intentional wrongdoing.

Key Legal Distinction

The “Hold” or Post-Dated Worthless Check Defense

If you told the recipient to wait before depositing the check—or if the check was post-dated—the law generally recognizes that there was no intent to defraud. The recipient accepted the risk.

I frequently use this defense to dismantle the State’s presumption of intent.

2. The 15-Day Statutory Notice: Your Critical Opportunity

Florida law builds in a safeguard: the 15-day demand letter requirement.

Before prosecutors can rely on a presumption of intent, the payee must send a certified or registered letter giving you 15 days to make the check good.

Why This Matters

If you pay the full amount plus the statutory service fee within that 15-day window, the legal presumption of intent disappears. In many cases, that ends the criminal exposure entirely.

Worthless Check Timeline Chart

Strategic Insight

I often advise clients to act immediately upon receiving notice—not out of panic, but as a calculated legal strategy to eliminate the State’s leverage.

3. Common Defenses I Use in Worthless Check Cases

Every case is different, but the strongest defenses often fall into a few key categories:

Lack of Intent

This is the cornerstone of most defenses. If I can show you believed funds were available, the prosecution’s case weakens significantly.

Identity Issues

The State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you wrote the check. If the merchant failed to verify identification, this becomes a powerful defense.

Pre-Existing Debt

Checks written for past obligations—like back rent—are often treated differently. These cases may not satisfy the criminal statute because no present exchange of value occurred.

The “Pre-Existing Debt” Defense in Florida Worthless Check Cases (With Legal Authority)

One of the most powerful—and frequently misunderstood—defenses to a worthless check charge under Florida Statute § 832.05 is the concept of pre-existing debt. I rely on this defense often because it goes directly to the heart of what the statute actually criminalizes: fraud in obtaining something of value, not the failure to pay an already-existing obligation.

The Controlling Legal Principle

Florida courts have consistently held that the worthless check statute applies only when a check is issued in exchange for present consideration—meaning something of value is given at the time the check is delivered.

When a check is written to satisfy a pre-existing debt, the required element of fraudulent intent tied to a contemporaneous exchange is often missing.

Statute Supporting This Defense

Florida Statute § 832.05
The statutory framework itself contemplates a transaction involving the receipt of goods, services, or property in reliance on the check.

Why Pre-Existing Debt Falls Outside the Statute

The reasoning is straightforward and powerful in court:

If the payee has already provided the goods or services, then:

• There is no new reliance on the check
• There is no inducement to part with property
• There is no contemporaneous exchange of value

Instead, the check is simply a method of attempting to repay a debt—which is a civil matter, not a criminal one.

Legal Distinction Table

How I Use This Defense in Practice

When I raise a pre-existing debt defense, I focus the analysis on timing and inducement.

I ask:

• When did the alleged victim provide the goods or services?
• What, if anything, did they give up in reliance on the check?
• Did the check cause them to change their position in any way?

If the answer is “nothing new was given,” the criminal case begins to unravel.

Evidence That Strengthens the Defense

To establish that a debt was pre-existing, I build a clear timeline using:

This documentation allows me to demonstrate that the transaction lacked the present consideration required under Florida law.

Prosecutorial Arguments—and How I Counter Them

In some cases, prosecutors attempt to blur the line by arguing:

• The check was part of a continuing business relationship
• The payment induced delay in collection efforts
• There was an ongoing expectation of value

I counter these arguments by returning to the statute and case law:
The focus is not on the relationship—it is on the moment the check was issued.

If no new value changed hands at that moment, the statute does not apply.

Mixed Transactions: Where the Analysis Gets Complex

Some cases involve both past and present consideration—for example:

• A partial payment of old debt combined with new goods
• A check used to secure additional services while paying a balance

In these situations, I break the transaction down line-by-line to determine whether any portion of the check could arguably fall within the statute—and whether that portion can be separated or challenged.

My Strategic Perspective

From a defense standpoint, the pre-existing debt doctrine is more than a technicality—it is a gatekeeping principle that prevents misuse of the criminal justice system.

Florida law is clear:
The courts are not a collection agency.

When the facts show that a check was written to pay an already-existing obligation, I move aggressively—often before charges are filed—to present controlling authority and push for:

• No filing of charges
• Dismissal
• Referral to civil court

Take Action Before the Case Escalates

If you are facing allegations involving a bounced check tied to rent, a loan, or an old invoice, you may have a strong, legally supported defense.

👉 Contact me now: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/
👉 Learn more about my experience: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/

I handle these cases personally and use proven legal authority to protect your record and your future.

Bank Errors

I defend cases where banks froze accounts, misapplied deposits, or caused overdrafts. Documentation is critical.

4. How Charges Are Classified in Florida

The amount of the check determines whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.

Real-World Impact

Beyond jail or prison, a conviction can affect:

• Professional licenses
• Employment opportunities
• Creditworthiness
• Immigration status

This is why early legal representation is essential.

5. The Investigation Process: What to Expect

Most worthless check cases do not start with an arrest. Instead, they begin with:

1. Merchant complaint
2. 15-day demand letter
3. Referral to State Attorney or Worthless Check Program
4. Possible warrant or summons

In many cases, I can intervene before formal charges are filed.

6. Pretrial Diversion and Worthless Check Programs

Florida offers diversion programs designed to resolve these cases without a conviction.

Typical Requirements

My Approach

I evaluate whether entering a program is in your best interest—or whether we should fight the charge outright. Not every case should be resolved through diversion.

7. Evidence That Can Strengthen Your Defense

When I prepare a defense, I focus on documentation that tells your side of the story:

• Bank statements
• Deposit records
• Text messages or emails
• Copies of the check
• Witness statements

The goal is to show lack of intent and create reasonable doubt.

8. Defense Strategy Flowchart

Protect Your Record Now

Worthless check cases move quickly—but so can effective defenses.

If you’ve received a demand letter or suspect charges may be filed, now is the time to act.

👉 Contact me today: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/
👉 Learn more about my experience: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/

I handle these cases personally and strategically from day one.

9. Collateral Consequences You Cannot Ignore

Many people underestimate these charges because they seem financial rather than criminal. That’s a mistake.

A conviction can:

• Appear on background checks
• Impact professional licensing boards
• Affect housing applications
• Trigger probation conditions

In my practice, I focus not just on the immediate case—but on protecting your long-term future.

10. Can These Charges Be Dismissed?

Yes—and often they are.

Dismissals typically occur when:

• The 15-day notice was defective
• Intent cannot be proven
• Identity is unclear
• Restitution eliminates prosecutorial interest

The earlier I get involved, the more options we have.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Q&A)

Final Call to Action: Take Control of Your Case Today

If you are facing a worthless check allegation in Florida, do not treat it as a simple misunderstanding. These cases carry real criminal consequences—but they are also highly defensible with the right legal strategy.

I bring years of courtroom experience and Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law to every case I handle.

👉 Contact me now: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/
👉 Learn more about my background: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/

Let’s take immediate steps to protect your record, your reputation, and your future.

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Facing Worthless Check Charges in Florida: Defense Strategies That Work

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Federal Rule of Evidence 403 – When we think of critical evidence in a federal drug and firearm trial, we usually visualize transparent bags of crystal meth, sterile lab reports, and serialized handguns laid out on a felt table. We don’t typically imagine a glossy, customized movie poster featuring the defendant looking really intense in a white three-piece suit.

Yet, that is exactly what the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals had to analyze in United States v. Joan Manuel Estadella, No. 23-11061, decided February 20, 2026. This case, primarily remembered for clarifying the Fourth Amendment rule regarding “common authority” consent when a violent occupant forces a co-resident to flee, also offers a fascinating, almost surreal, case study on Federal Rule of Evidence 403.

The central evidentiary fight was over a poster. Specifically, a standard-issue movie poster for the 1983 classic Scarface (the iconic red, black, and white split-screen design), but with a modification: Joan Manuel Estadella’s own face had been professionally (or perhaps not-so-professionally) superimposed over the face of actor Al Pacino, who played the fictional drug kingpin Tony Montana.

This single object, found on a bedroom wall during a warrantless search that Estadella tried desperately to suppress, became the focal point of a major appellate argument. Was it highly relevant evidence, or was it a cheap, prejudicial shot designed to paint the defendant as a dangerous narco-wannabe?

We are going to explore why the 11th Circuit affirmed the trial court’s decision to show this poster to the jury. We’ll look at the balancing act of Federal Rule of Evidence 403 , how a person’s chosen persona can be used against them in court, and the practical takeaways for criminal defense lawyers in an age of personalized, digital bravado.

Is Your Social Media or Home Decor a Prosecution Exhibit in Waiting? The Estadella case proves that what you think is just “style” or “bravado” can be used as a roadmap for federal prosecutors. If you or a loved one are facing charges where “constructive possession” is a key issue, you need an attorney who understands how the government builds these “persona-based” cases.

Learn more about my experience as a Board Certified Criminal Trial Expert on my Professional Bio Page, or if you need immediate help, Contact the Law Offices of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary, Jr. for a confidential strategy session.

The Setup: The Flight, the Search, and the Discovery

To understand why the poster was relevant, you must understand how the police found it. The entire chain of events began with an incident at a nearby Star Motel, involving a shooting linked to Estadella. Following this leads, police arrived at a residence where Estadella lived with his mother and stepfather.

Upon arrival, officers encountered the stepfather outside a different, nearby home. The stepfather informed police that earlier that day, Estadella had been violent and had chased him out of the main house by pulling a firearm on him. Fearing for his life, the stepfather fled to the nearby address but confirmed he still legally resided at the main house.

Critically, the stepfather gave the officers verbal and written consent to search the main residence. When they entered, they focused on a specific bedroom that appeared to be Estadella’s sanctuary. Inside this room, they recovered multiple firearms, ammunition, and a significant quantity of “ice” methamphetamine (a high-purity, potent form of the drug).

And there, prominently displayed on the wall, right next to the dresser where key Federal Rule of Evidence 403 material was found, was the “Tony Montana/Estadella” hybrid poster.

Rule 403. Exclusion of Relevant Evidence on Grounds of Prejudice, Confusion, or Waste of Time

Although relevant, evidence may be excluded if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice, confusion of the issues, or misleading the jury, or by considerations of undue delay, waste of time, or needless presentation of cumulative evidence.

Federal Rule of Evidence 403

The Legal Sandbox: Constructive Possession vs. Unfair Prejudice

At trial, Estadella moved to exclude the poster, arguing it violated Federal Rule of Evidence 403. Federal Rule of Evidence 403 is the “great balancer” in American law. It states that a judge may exclude relevant evidence if its “probative value” (its usefulness in proving a fact) is substantially outweighed by the danger of “unfair prejudice.”

1. The Defendant’s Argument: The “Tony Montana” Smear – Federal Rule of Evidence 403

Estadella’s defense was straightforward. The poster, they argued, served only one purpose: to incite the passions of the jury by suggesting Estadella fantasized about being a legendary drug kingpin.

It was character evidence masked as property identification. The defense argued that a jury, seeing his face superimposed over a character synonymous with narcotics violence and the “rise and fall” of a crime empire, wouldn’t convict him based on the evidence found in the dresser. They would convict him because he admired a monster. This, they claimed, was the definition of unfair prejudice—it invited the jury to convict him for his persona rather than his actions.

2. The Government’s Position: Identification and Control

The prosecution argued that the poster was not about character or fantasizing; it was about identity and constructive possession.

In a search that recovers contraband (guns, drugs) from a common dwelling, the government must link those specific items to the defendant. Often, this means proving constructive possession: showing that the defendant, even if not holding the object at the moment of arrest, exercised dominion and control over the area where it was found.

The poster, featuring the defendant’s own face, found inside the single bedroom where the bulk of the drugs and guns were recovered, was powerful evidence that it was his room. It established that he controlled the space. It wasn’t character evidence—it was a location identifier that was impossible to refute. His face was, literally, on the wall.

The 11th Circuit Ruling: Context and Persona under Federal Rule of Evidence 403

The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the district court’s admission of the poster. They agreed that the Rule 403 balancing test landed in favor of the prosecution.

The court’s logic centered on several key points:

• Proximity and Specificity: The poster was not found in a shared living room; it was in the single bedroom containing the critical contraband. Its proximity made it highly probative of his control over that specific space.
• The Power of Superimposition: The court noted that it wasn’t just any Scarface poster; it was a custom piece featuring his face. This personalization elevated its relevance significantly. It wasn’t a poster owned by just “anyone in the house.” It was unique to the defendant.
• The Intrinsic Link (The YouTube Video): The court also noted that this was part of a larger pattern of self-identification. The trial court had also admitted a YouTube music video where Estadella appeared, handling narcotics at a table covered in guns, and sitting next to ammunition found at the same address. The poster and the video, taken together, created a cohesive and powerful digital and physical footprint of ownership and dominion.
• A “Kingpin” Persona as a Fact: The court noted that Rule 403 does not require evidence to be “sterile” or “pretty.” If a defendant cultivates a persona of being a drug dealer, and that persona helps identify him in a room full of drugs, it is not “unfair” prejudice. It is relevant prejudice.

The court concluded that while the nature of the poster (drug kingpin iconography) had some potential for prejudice, that risk did not substantially outweigh the overwhelming relevance of the object in identifying Estadella as the person who controlled the specific room where the guns and the “ice” meth were stored. The Rule 403 challenge was denied.

Analysis and Takeaway for Practitioners

Your Decor is Evidence

For criminal defense attorneys, Estadella is a stern warning. In a constructive possession case, the “personal items” found during a search—letters, medicine bottles, utilities—are always used to tie a defendant to a room. But Estadella confirms that customized self-image items (like personalized movie posters, custom t-shirts, or even large framed photographs of the defendant in a specific “pose”) are fair game, and highly potent, evidence.

If a client surrounds themselves with customized, idealized versions of themselves, they are essentially providing the government with a localized GPS of their dominion. The argument “It wasn’t my bedroom” crashes against the reality of a giant customized portrait on the wall.

Don’t Let a Misunderstanding of Consent Cost You Your Freedom. The rules for “common authority” and warrantless searches are complex. Understanding when a co-resident can let police into your private space is the first line of defense. I have spent my career navigating these specific Fourth Amendment hurdles in Florida and Federal courts.

Explore my background in complex criminal defense on my About Me page, and reach out via our Secure Contact Form to discuss your search and seizure concerns.

Q&A: Answering Your Common Questions on Estadella and Scarface

Here, we break down the crucial nuances of the 11th Circuit’s ruling for non-lawyers.

Conclusion: The End of “Just Pretending” in Constructive Possession

The Estadella case is a significant marker for how courts handle personalization and self-mythologizing in the age of custom print-on-demand and social media identities. Joan Manuel Estadella’s mistake wasn’t admiring a movie character; it was creating a personalized, customized link between that character’s fictional criminality and the very real bedroom where real crimes were being plotted.

For defense attorneys, this case highlights that Rule 403 balancing on personal effects is shifting. When the physical evidence literally has the defendant’s face on it, the argument of “dominion and control” is almost impossible for the government to lose. Your decor, your customized apparel, and your digital footprint of bravado aren’t just “likes”; they are location-specific admissions of possession. Joan Manuel Estadella’s customized poster was a “little friend” that the jury got to say hello to, and it helped secure his 96-month sentence.

Facing Federal Charges? You Need an Attorney Who Understands the “New” Evidence. From custom Scarface posters to YouTube music videos, the landscape of criminal evidence is shifting. You need a defense team that isn’t just familiar with the law, but knows how to aggressively challenge the “persona” the government tries to build against you.

As a Florida Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer with almost 40 years of experience, I am ready to fight for your rights.

• Review my credentials and case history: W.F. “Casey” Ebsary, Jr. Bio
• Get started on your defense today: Contact Us Online or call our office directly to protect your future.

Complete Opinion located here:

Official Opinion Link: USCA11 Case: 23-11061 – United States v. Estadella (PDF)

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FOR PUBLICATION 

In the United States Court of Appeals 

For the Eleventh Circuit 

____________________ No. 23-11061 _{____________________} 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 

Plaintiff-Appellee, versus 

JOAN MANUEL ESTADELLA, 

Defendant-Appellant. ____________________ Appeal from the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida D.C. Docket No. 1:21-cr-20374-RKA-1 _{____________________} 

Before JORDAN, HULL, and MARCUS, Circuit Judges. 

HULL, Circuit Judge: 

Following a jury trial, defendant Joan Estadella appeals his convictions and 96-month sentence on an 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) felon in possession of a firearm count and a 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine count. On 

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appeal, Estadella challenges (1) the denial of his motion to suppress evidence; (2) the admission of parts of the government’s evidence; (3) the denial of his Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 29 motion for judgment of acquittal as to his § 841(a)(1) drug conviction; (4) the overruling of his prosecutorial misconduct objection; (5) all of these rulings as cumulative error; and (6) the calculation of his base offense level at sentencing. 

After careful review of the record and the parties’ briefs, and with the benefit of oral argument, we affirm Estadella’s convictions and sentence. 

I. INDICTMENT 

An indictment in the Southern District of Florida charged Estadella with (1) possessing a Taurus 9mm pistol with serial number TLZ57339 and its ammunition as a convicted felon between November 28, 2020, and December 1, 2020, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) (Count 1); (2) possessing a Springfield Armory .380 caliber pistol with serial number CC121963 and its ammunition as a convicted felon between November 30, 2020, and December 1, 2020, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) (Count 2); (3) possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) (Count 3); and (4) possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) (Count 4). Estadella pled not guilty and proceeded to trial. 

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II. TRIAL EVIDENCE 

During a four-day jury trial, the government called eleven witnesses. Multiple members of the Hialeah Police Department testified, including: Detectives Kinshun Mui and Daniel Gato, Crime Scene Technicians Amber Perez and Genesis Prescott, and Sergeant Gene De Lima. Three members of the Miami-Dade Police Department’s crime laboratory testified: Tyler Brown as a firearms identification expert, and Jonathan Lawrence and Cara Lopez as DNA analysts. From the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), forensic chemist Manuel Febo testified and described lab results for narcotics seized, and Special Agent Shaun Perry testified as an expert in street-level drug trafficking. Dianellys Estadella—the defendant’s fraternal twin sister—also testified. Collectively, their testimony showed as follows. 

A. Star Motel Shooting and Arrest 

On November 28, 2020, a shooting and possible abduction occurred at the Star Motel, located in Hialeah, Florida. Two days later, Detective Mui of the Hialeah Police Department began investigating the incident. As part of his investigation, Mui collected surveillance video from the Star Motel and surrounding businesses. Surveillance videos were played for the jury, and Mui described their contents at length. 

The suspects arrived at the Star Motel in a white work van with two ladders on the roof. Two men wearing distinctive clothing exited the van and walked to the rear of the building. The taller man had on a neon yellow-green mask, while the shorter 

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man wore a dark olive-green shirt, dark mask, Jordan brand sneakers, rubber-coated work gloves, and a blue hat with “Miami” in white, cursive font embroidered on the front. 

The two men approached one of the guest rooms of the motel and drew their pistols. The taller man wielded a medium- framed silver and purple pistol, while the shorter man bore a small, black pistol. The suspects tried to force their way into the room. During the ensuing struggle, the taller man fired a shot into the room. _{The two men then departed, escorting a woman from the} motel room. The assailants and their apparent captive drove away in the white work van. 

During his review of the surveillance footage, Detective Mui observed an occupational license number on the white work van. The number was associated with J and M Electric LLC (“J&M Electric”), an entity whose registered agent and manager was listed as Defendant Estadella. J&M Electric’s principal place of business was a residential address on West 17th Street in Hialeah, Florida (the “West 17th property”). 

Shortly after performing a “drive through” of the residential neighborhood where J&M Electric was based, Sgt. De Lima spotted the white work van from the surveillance footage and initiated a traffic stop. Officers identified Estadella, whom Sgt. De Lima described as “very short and stocky,” as the driver of the van. Estadella’s girlfriend, Yoana Quevedo, was riding along as a passenger. Based on their possible connection to the Star Motel 

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incident, both Estadella and his girlfriend were taken into custody, and the van was impounded. 

B. The West 17th Property 

In addition to being J&M Electric’s listed address, the West 17th property served as Estadella’s residence. Acquired in 2011, the property initially functioned as a “family home” for multiple generations of the Estadella family, including Estadella, his sister Dianellys, their mother and stepfather, Estadella’s son, and Dianellys’s two daughters. The West 17th property was owned by Estadella’s (1) mother and (2) stepfather, Lazaro Soriano. 

Later in 2011, Dianellys and her daughters moved out. Estadella then took possession of the main bedroom with a connected bathroom. Estadella also converted a back bedroom into an office and placed a keypad lock on the door. Around 2017, shortly after Estadella’s mother passed away, Estadella’s girlfriend moved into the property with Estadella. 

After the mother’s passing, Soriano became the sole owner of the house. At the time Estadella was arrested, Detective Mui and Sgt. De Lima believed Soriano owned the residence. 

C. Searches of the West 17th Property 

On November 30, Soriano gave detectives verbal and written consent to search the West 17th property. At the home, Soriano even used his key to allow officers into the house. 

Once inside, Detective Mui saw the same Jordan shoes and “Miami” baseball cap that he had observed in the surveillance 

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footage from the Star Motel. These items were in Estadella’s bedroom and the connected bathroom. Later on, DNA in the baseball cap matched a sample taken from Estadella. 

Based on their observations, the officers withdrew, and Detective Mui applied for a search warrant allowing officers to search the residence for evidence related to the Star Motel shooting. On December 1, while the application for a search warrant was pending, Mui allowed Soriano to enter the residence under police escort to retrieve his dogs and medicine. The search warrant on the residence was issued later that day. 

After obtaining the search warrant, officers continued their search of the West 17th property. In common areas, officers found an olive-green shirt and gardening gloves with rubberized palms—items believed to have been worn by the shorter suspect in the Star Motel incident. Within Estadella’s bathroom, officers found the firearm and ammunition charged in Count 2: a black, compact pistol manufactured by Springfield Armory with serial number CC121963 and loaded with five rounds of ammunition. 

During execution of the search warrant, officers discovered Estadella’s locked office with a keypad code at the back of the house. Without the code, officers forced their way into the room. The room contained a large J&M Electric poster, a desk, business files, and computers. A bulletin board had J&M Electric flyers and business cards pinned to it. A small Scarface movie poster sat atop a mess of files on the desk. Instead of depicting Al Pacino as the 

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fictional drug kingpin Tony Montana, the poster was altered, with Estadella’s face superimposed over Pacino’s. 

In a file box underneath the desk, officers uncovered a black bag with suspected narcotics inside. This prompted the officers to withdraw and obtain a search warrant allowing them to search for and seize narcotics-related evidence. 

After obtaining the additional warrant, Detective Gato of the narcotics unit continued searching the office. Gato described the black bag as a narcotics “trafficking kit” containing “basically everything that someone would need to sell or distribute narcotics,” including: spoons, a measuring cup, digital scales, empty plastic baggies, and several baggies of suspected narcotics. Gato collected thirty baggies of suspected narcotics from the back office. Lab tests showed the substances recovered contained 31 grams of methamphetamine with 93% purity, or 28.8 grams of pure methamphetamine. Special Agent Shaun Perry opined that the packaging and quantity of methamphetamine was consistent with the distribution and sale of narcotics, rather than personal use. 

Other officers returned to Estadella’s bedroom and found the firearm and ammunition charged in Count 1: a loaded silver and purple Taurus 9mm pistol with serial number TLZ57339. The government’s firearm identification expert testified that a shell casing recovered from the Star Motel was ejected from this Taurus 9mm. 

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D. Search of Estadella’s Van 

Pursuant to a separate search warrant, Detective Mui and others searched the white van Estadella was driving at the time of his arrest. Within a bag stored in the center console, they found a Smith and Wesson pistol. This pistol was not charged in the indictment. The district court instructed the jury to consider it only for the purpose of determining Estadella’s state of mind. See Fed. R. Evid. 404(b). 

E. YouTube Music Video 

The government played a YouTube music video filmed within the West 17th property. As one individual freestyle raps in Spanish, the video depicts Estadella and others playing poker at a table covered in poker chips and firearm magazines. Detective Mui viewed the video and (1) identified Estadella based on his distinctive tattoos; and (2) stated the video took place inside the West 17th property. The singer repeatedly bears a pistol. At one point, the camera focuses on a plate covered by small baggies of suspected narcotics. Dianellys testified that the hands holding the plate belonged to her brother, Estadella. 

The district court provided a limiting instruction both times the YouTube video was mentioned. The district court told the jury they must consider the video “only . . . to determine whether or not the defendant had the state of mind to commit the crimes that are charged in the indictment.” 

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F. Stipulations 

The parties stipulated that Estadella (1) was convicted of a felony offense prior to November 28, 2020; and (2) knew he was convicted of a felony offense. 

The parties also stipulated that the Springfield Armory .380 caliber pistol, Taurus 9mm pistol, and associated ammunition qualified as “firearms” and “ammunition” as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3) and (17). The parties agreed the firearms and ammunition described “were all manufactured outside of the State of Florida and thus have moved in interstate or foreign commerce prior to November 28, 2020.” 

G. Verdict and Sentence 

The jury found Estadella guilty (1) of the felon in possession of a firearm charges in Counts 1 and 2; and (2) of the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine charge in Count 3. The jury found Estadella not guilty of the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge in Count 4. 

After his conviction, Estadella moved to dismiss Count 2, which charged him with possessing the Springfield Armory .380 caliber pistol as a convicted felon. Estadella argued his conviction on Count 2 and for the Taurus 9mm pistol in Count 1 created a double jeopardy problem because “[t]he ‘simultaneous possession of several weapons constitutes only one offense under Section [922(g)].’” United States v. Grinkiewicz, 873 F.2d 253, 255 (11th Cir. 1989) (per curiam) (quoting United States v. Smith, 591 F.2d 1105, 1107 (5th Cir. 1979)), abrogated in part on other grounds by, United 

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States v. Clarke, 822 F.3d 1213 (11th Cir. 2016) (per curiam). Estadella’s motion indicated that the government joined the request to dismiss Count 2. 

The district court granted Estadella’s unopposed motion and dismissed Count 2 of the indictment. The district court sentenced Estadella to concurrent 96-month terms of imprisonment on Counts 1 and 3. 

Estadella timely appealed. 

III. STANDARDS OF REVIEW 

We review the denial of a motion to suppress under a mixed standard, reviewing the district court’s factual findings for clear error and the application of the law to those facts de novo. United States v. Graham, 123 F.4th 1197, 1238 (11th Cir. 2024) (citing United States v. Ford, 784 F.3d 1386, 1391 (11th Cir. 2015)). 

We review evidentiary rulings under an abuse of discretion standard. United States v. Akwuba, 7 F.4th 1299, 1313 (11th Cir. 2021). “Because we recognize a significant range of choice for the district court on evidentiary issues, our review of such rulings is very limited[,] and we defer to the district court’s decisions to a considerable extent.” Id. (citation modified). 

Generally, we review de novo the denial of a motion for a judgment of acquittal based on the sufficiency of the evidence. United States v. Hano, 922 F.3d 1272, 1283 (11th Cir. 2019). “This Court views the evidence ‘in the light most favorable to the government, with all reasonable inferences and credibility choices 

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made in the government’s favor.’” United States v. Anderson, 326 F.3d 1319, 1326 (11th Cir. 2003) (quoting United States v. Miles, 290 F.3d 1341, 1355 (11th Cir. 2002) (per curiam)). “But when a defendant challenges the sufficiency of the evidence on a ground not argued before the district court, we review for plain error.” United States v. Al Jaberi, 97 F.4th 1310, 1322 (11th Cir. 2024) (citing United States v. Baston, 818 F.3d 651, 664 (11th Cir. 2016)). 

We typically review de novo a claim of prosecutorial misconduct. Id. (citing United States v. Horner, 853 F.3d 1201, 1206 (11th Cir. 2017)). 

We review de novo claims of cumulative error. United States v. Green, 158 F.4th 1347, 1365 (11th Cir. 2025) (citing United States v. Pendergrass, 995 F.3d 858, 881 (11th Cir. 2021)). 

“We review de novo the interpretation and application of the Sentencing Guidelines.” United States v. Kluge, 147 F.4th 1291, 1296 (11th Cir. 2025) (quoting United States v. Dupree, 57 F.4th 1269, 1272 (11th Cir. 2023) (en banc)). The district court’s factual findings at sentencing, however, are reviewed under the clearly erroneous standard. United States v. Bergman, 852 F.3d 1046, 1070 (11th Cir. 2017) (citing United States v. Moran, 778 F.3d 942, 959 (11th Cir. 2015)). 

IV. MOTION TO SUPPRESS 

Estadella contends that the district court erred when it denied his motion to suppress all evidence discovered during search of his residence. Particularly, Estadella argues Soriano was neither a co-occupant nor owner of the West 17th property as of 

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November 30, 2020, meaning Soriano could not provide valid consent to the initial search of the residence. 

The district court held an evidentiary hearing on Estadella’s motion and heard testimony that provided more detail regarding both (1) ownership and possession of the West 17th property and (2) the events leading to the search. We summarize the relevant testimony and the district court’s findings. 

A. Evidentiary Hearing 

1. Move Out and Quitclaim Deed 

By November 2020, Estadella, his son, Quevedo, and Soriano lived in the West 17th property. Around a week before Estadella’s arrest, near Thanksgiving of 2020, Soriano and Estadella had a disagreement over Estadella’s use of Soriano’s car. Estadella escalated the disagreement by punching Soriano in the face, breaking his nose. 

Estadella’s violence caused Soriano to move temporarily to Dianellys’s nearby home. Soriano testified that he feared Estadella, but felt safe with Dianellys, who took “very good care of” the elderly Soriano. A relative and her boyfriend helped Soriano move his bed to Dianellys’s home. 

Nonetheless, Soriano’s other furniture, clothing, personal objects, and even his dogs remained in the West 17th property. During his testimony, Soriano emphasized that he only intended to stay with Dianellys “temporarily.” 

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On November 23, 2020, Soriano executed a quitclaim deed conveying his interest in the West 17th property to Dianellys and one of Dianellys’s daughters. Execution of the deed was witnessed by two people, and the deed was notarized. Dianellys filed the deed with Miami-Dade County. As of November 30, the deed was not yet processed and recorded. Dianellys believed the deed was not legally effective until it was recorded. Soriano similarly believed he retained title to the property after his execution of the quitclaim deed. 

2. Obtaining Search Consent on November 30 

Detectives Mui, Joseph Elosegui, and Daniel Pelaez testified and described the events of November 30, 2020, which led to them seeking and receiving Soriano’s consent to search the West 17th property. During his initial traffic stop and arrest, Estadella told Mui that he lived at the West 17th property with his girlfriend, son, and Soriano. Back at the station, Estadella refused to consent to the search of the West 17th property. Estadella told the detectives that his stepfather, Soriano, owned the home. 

Detective Pelaez traveled to the West 17th property and was greeted by Estadella’s juvenile son. Estadella’s son informed Pelaez that the home belonged to Soriano, who was at a nearby residence. Pelaez, now joined by Detective Elosegui, went to Dianellys’s nearby home. The two detectives found Soriano and Dianellys. While en route, Elosegui searched Miami-Dade County records 

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and verified that Soriano was listed as the owner of the West 17th property.¹ 

Soriano informed the two detectives that he owned the West 17th property, although Soriano mentioned he was transferring the property to Dianellys via quitclaim deed. Soriano gave the detectives verbal and written consent to search the entire West 17th property. Dianellys too gave verbal consent to search the home. 

Soriano accompanied Detectives Elosegui and Pelaez back to the West 17th property. There, Detective Mui reunited with the group. Soriano used his key to open the door to the residence and allow the detectives to enter. 

As recounted previously, the discovery of distinctive clothing seen in the Star Motel surveillance footage caused the detectives to stop and go obtain several search warrants and uncover most of the remaining evidence in this case. 

B. District Court’s Findings 

The district court denied Estadella’s motion to suppress for at least three alternative reasons. First, the district court found Soriano had actual authority to consent to a search of the West 17th property as a co-possessor of the property. The district court credited Soriano and Dianellys’s testimony that Soriano 

1 _{As we noted earlier, the quitclaim deed conveying the West 17th property to} Dianellys and her daughter was not yet recorded. It is not disputed that under Florida law the deed was effective at the date of execution. 

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temporarily left the property only because of Estadella’s physical attack. The district court reasoned that a defendant could not force a co-occupant out of a property and then successfully claim the former co-occupant had lost their co-possessory interest and ability to consent to search of that property. 

Further, the district court found ample evidence supported a finding that Soriano still resided at and co-possessed the West 17th property, including (1) Estadella’s own statement that Soriano resided at the property; and (2) testimony that most of Soriano’s belongings remained at the property. In the district court’s view, Soriano remained a co-possessor of the West 17th property with actual authority to provide consent to search on November 30, 2020. 

Second, the district court found Soriano’s consent to search was effective since Soriano had apparent authority over the property as the purported owner. The district court explained that officers reasonably believed Soriano owned the West 17th property based on several facts, including: (1) Estadella, his son, Soriano, and Dianellys all told the detectives that Soriano owned the property; (2) Soriano possessed a key to the home and opened the home for the officers; and (3) Miami-Dade County property records listed Soriano as the owner of the home. 

Third, the district court found Dianellys had consented to the search as the true owner of the property. In this regard, the district court concluded that, under Florida law, the quitclaim deed was effective at the date of execution, regardless of whether the 

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deed was recorded. As of November 30, 2020, Dianellys thus owned the West 17th property and had actual authority to consent to the search. 

As to both Soriano and Dianellys’s consent, the district court found that their consent to search the property was unlimited. Even assuming their consent could not extend to parts of the house, such as Estadella’s locked office, the district court noted the detectives obtained a search warrant before entering the locked office inside the property. 

C. The Fourth Amendment and Consent Searches 

The Fourth Amendment protects “[t]he right of the people to be secure . . . against unreasonable searches and seizures.” U.S. Const. amend. IV. “As the text makes clear, ‘the ultimate touchstone of the Fourth Amendment is reasonableness.’” United States v. Harden, 104 F.4th 830, 833 (11th Cir. 2024) (quoting Riley v. California, 573 U.S. 373, 381 (2014)). The Fourth Amendment evinces a “strong preference” that searches be performed pursuant to a warrant, and warrantless searches of a home are presumptively unreasonable. United States v. Grushko, 50 F.4th 1, 10–11 (11th Cir. 2022) (citing Payton v. New York, 445 U.S. 573, 586 (1980)). 

While the “Fourth Amendment generally prohibits the warrantless entry of a person’s home[,] . . . [t]he prohibition does not apply . . . to situations in which voluntary consent has been obtained, either from the individual whose property is searched . . . or from a third party who possesses common authority over the premises.” Illinois v. Rodriguez, 497 U.S. 177, 181 

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(1990) (citations omitted); see also Fernandez v. California, 571 U.S. 292, 298 (2014) (providing that law enforcement may carry out a warrantless search when they obtain consent from the sole owner or occupant of a home). 

A consent to search “must be voluntary—not the ‘product of duress or coercion.’” Dukes v. Sheriff of Levy Cnty., 155 F.4th 1291, 1297 (11th Cir. 2025) (quoting Schneckloth v. Bustamonte, 412 U.S. 218, 227 (1973)). The permissible reach of a consent search is limited by the scope of the given consent, as understood by a reasonable person. Florida v. Jimeno, 500 U.S. 248, 251 (1991). 

D. Consent and Co-occupants 

On several occasions, the Supreme Court has analyzed the constitutionality of a warrantless search when one occupant consents to a search of a space shared with another occupant who (1) objects to the search and (2) later moves to suppress evidence discovered during the search. See United States v. Matlock, 415 U.S. 164 (1974); Georgia v. Randolph, 547 U.S. 103 (2006); Fernandez, 571 U.S. at 301–07. We review these decisions. 

In United States v. Matlock, the Supreme Court held voluntary consent to search may be “obtained from a third party who possessed common authority over or other sufficient relationship to the premises or effects sought to be inspected.” 415 U.S. at 171 (emphasis added). The Supreme Court explained that “common authority” was not based upon a person’s property interest and, instead, reasoned: 

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Common authority . . . rests rather on mutual use of the property by persons generally having joint access or control for most purposes, so that it is reasonable to recognize that any of the co-inhabitants has the right to permit the inspection in his own right and that the others have assumed the risk that one of their number might permit the common area to be searched. Id. at 171 n.7; see also Randolph, 547 U.S. at 110 (summarizing Matlock). The Supreme Court later clarified that common authority could be actual or apparent, and a consent search was not impermissible if law enforcement reasonably, but mistakenly, believed the person providing consent had common authority over the property. Rodriguez, 497 U.S. at 186. 

Next came Georgia v. Randolph, where law enforcement searched a couple’s marital home after the wife “readily gave” consent for the search, but the physically present husband “unequivocally refused” to give consent. 547 U.S. at 107. The Supreme Court turned to “widely shared social expectations” to assess the Fourth Amendment reasonableness of the search and noted that a visitor would not feel confident entering a home on one occupant’s invitation when the “fellow tenant stood there saying, ‘stay out.’” Id. at 111, 113. Because neither co-occupant had a superior right vis-à-vis the other, the Supreme Court reasoned that the objected-to consent was akin to “the absence of any consent at all.” Id. at 114. The Supreme Court therefore held “that a warrantless search of a shared dwelling for evidence over the express refusal of consent by a physically present resident cannot be 

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justified as reasonable as to him on the basis of consent given to the police by another resident.” Id. at 120 (emphasis added). 

Then, in Fernandez v. California, the Supreme Court clarified that Randolph applied only to situations where the objecting co-occupant is physically present at the premises. Fernandez, 571 U.S. at 294. In other words, a co-occupant’s objection to a search does not vitiate another co-occupant’s consent when the objecting occupant is not physically present at the premises. Id. The Supreme Court also reasoned that it did not matter that the objecting co-occupant’s absence was caused by an objectively justifiable arrest. Id. at 302–03. 

E. Discussion 

We readily conclude, as the district court found, that the evidence demonstrated that Soriano had actual authority to consent to the search of the West 17th property. 

At the time he consented to the search, Soriano qualified as a co-occupant with common authority over the West 17th property. Estadella himself told detectives on November 30, 2020, that Soriano resided at the property. Soriano possessed a key to the property. Nearly all of Soriano’s possessions—even his dogs—remained at the West 17th property. Cf. United States v. Backus, 349 F.3d 1298, 1301, 1304 (11th Cir. 2003) (concluding wife retained common authority over home where almost all her belongings, including her pets, remained in the home). And Soriano had moved his bed from the property only days earlier. Soriano testified that his absence from the property was only 

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intended to be temporary. Everyone involved—including Estadella—believed Soriano owned the property. 

These facts clearly show Soriano retained the type of joint access and control of the West 17th property to provide him with “common authority” over the property. Cf. Rodriguez, 497 U.S. at 181–82 (stating no common authority over apartment was had by person who moved out a month prior, left some furniture behind but was not on the lease, had stolen a key to the apartment, and never accessed the premises without the leaseholder present). And, as the district court found, Soriano’s consent was unlimited in scope and given voluntarily. 

Estadella argues that Soriano lacked common authority over the property because he no longer resided there. That argument fails because one occupant cannot force a co-occupant out of a property through physical violence and then successfully claim the co-occupant lacks common authority over the property. This Court held as much in United States v. Backus, where a wife and child fled the marital home due to the husband’s abuse. 349 F.3d at 1304. We refused to “condone and reward violent, abusive behavior” and, instead, concluded that the wife, who had fled six months prior, had maintained sufficient common authority over the marital home to consent to a search of the home. Id. at 1302, 1304–05. Backus applies with equal force here, where the district court found the elderly Soriano would not have departed the West 17th property but for Estadella’s violence against him. 

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Estadella’s argument also fails because Soriano (1) moved his bed but kept his other possessions, furniture, and dogs at the West 17th property; (2) retained his key to the property; and (3) testified he only intended to stay at Dianellys’s temporarily. Given this evidence, the district court did not err in its finding Soriano remained a co-resident at the West 17th property. 

We conclude that Soriano retained common authority over the West 17th property despite his brief departure from the property. _{We recognize that Estadella declined to give consent to} search the property before detectives sought out Soriano. But Estadella’s objection was made at the police station. When Soriano consented to the search and opened the home for detectives, Estadella was not physically present at the West 17th property. Under Fernandez, therefore, Estadella’s objections were ineffectual and did not prevent detectives from permissibly acting on Soriano’s consent. That Estadella’s absence was caused by his arrest matters not, because his arrest was objectively justified for his suspected role in the Star Motel incident. See Fernandez, 571 U.S. at 302–03. 

In sum, we conclude that law enforcement (1) obtained consent from Soriano, who had common authority over the property, and thus (2) carried out an initial warrantless search of the West 17th property consistent with the Fourth Amendment. 

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We therefore affirm the district court’s denial of Estadella’s motion to suppress.² 

V. ADMISSION OF STAR MOTEL, MOVIE POSTER, AND 

YOUTUBE VIDEO EVIDENCE 

Estadella argues the district court erroneously admitted evidence regarding the Star Motel incident, Scarface poster, and YouTube music video. We disagree and explain why. 

A. Background 

Pretrial, the government filed an omnibus motion in limine which, in relevant part, sought to confirm the admissibility of (1) evidence about the Star Motel incident, (2) the Scarface poster, and (3) the YouTube music video. Estadella opposed the motion. At a hearing, the district court granted the part of the motion relevant here. 

The district court first reasoned that evidence relating to the Star Motel shooting was admissible as intrinsic to Count 1’s felon in possession of a firearm charge. That count alleged Estadella had possessed the silver and purple 9mm pistol from November 28, 2020—the date of the Star Motel shooting—to December 1, 2020. 

2 _{Because we conclude that Soriano had actual authority and provided valid} consent to search as a co-occupant with common authority, we need not address whether (1) Soriano had apparent authority to provide valid consent as the supposed owner of the property; or (2) Dianellys could provide valid consent to the search as the true titleholder of the property. 

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The district court found that the shooting evidence was inextricably intertwined with the charged offenses. 

Next, the district court found the Scarface poster depicting Estadella as Tony Montana and displayed in Estadella’s back, locked office was admissible to show (1) Estadella’s control over the room where the methamphetamine was found; and (2) that Estadella, like drug kingpin Tony Montana in Scarface, intended to distribute the methamphetamine. 

The district court also found the YouTube music video, which showed Estadella surrounded by guns, ammunition, and drugs in the West 17th property itself, was admissible under Rule 404(b) to show Estadella’s knowledge of drugs in the property, control over the property, intent, and absence of surprise or mistake. 

B. Star Motel 

For starters, the district court did not abuse its discretion in admitting evidence of the Star Motel incident as intrinsic to the firearm charges against Estadella. 

“Evidence is admissible as intrinsic if it is either ‘(1) an uncharged offense which arose out of the same transaction or series of transactions as the charged offense, (2) necessary to complete the story of the crime, or (3) inextricably intertwined with the evidence regarding the charged offense.’” United States v. Beasley, 160 F.4th 1199, 1207 (11th Cir. 2025) (quoting United States v. Troya, 733 F.3d 1125, 1131 (11th Cir. 2013)). 

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Evidence of the Star Motel incident was inextricably intertwined with evidence relevant to Estadella’s firearm charges. See Fed. R. Evid. 401 (providing that evidence is relevant when it has any tendency to make a fact of consequence more or less probable). Surveillance video from the motel depicted an individual suspect who resembled Estadella wielding a small firearm of similar appearance to the Springfield Armory .380 caliber pistol later discovered in his home and charged in Count 2. And that suspect’s partner carried and discharged the silver and purple Taurus 9mm charged in Count 1. Other evidence about the white van tied Estadella to the shooting. The Star Motel evidence thus was probative of when and how Estadella came to possess one or both of the firearms charged in the indictment. The events at the Star Motel could not be separated from evidence regarding the firearms. 

Additionally, the Star Motel incident was both (1) the first step in the “chain of events” of this case and (2) necessary to complete the story of how and why detectives zeroed in on Estadella, took him into custody, searched his home, and discovered almost all the evidence in this case. See United States v. Edouard, 485 F.3d 1324, 1344 (11th Cir. 2007) (stating evidence “pertaining to the chain of events explaining the context, motive[,] and set-up of the crime” may be admitted (quoting United States v. McLean, 138 F.3d 1398, 1403 (11th Cir. 1998))). 

Contrary to Estadella’s arguments, the Star Motel evidence was not unduly prejudicial nor unnecessarily cumulative. Evidence 

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may be excluded when “its probative value is substantially outweighed by a danger of . . . unfair prejudice . . . or needlessly presenting cumulative evidence.” Fed. R. Evid. 403. 

Here, the district court made a finding that the probative value of the Star Motel evidence was not substantially outweighed by the risk of unfair prejudice. As the district court reasoned, the risk of undue prejudice was somewhat low because the Star Motel incident did not involve an injury or death of a victim or any graphic crime scene evidence. The district court further mitigated the risk of unfair prejudice by instructing the jury (1) not to consider the shooting to determine Estadella’s guilt; and (2) disregard one witness’s characterization of the incident as a “kidnapping.” We also reject Estadella’s claim that the government presented needlessly repetitive evidence of the Star Motel incident. 

For all these reasons, the district court did not abuse its discretion in admitting evidence of the Star Motel incident. 

C. Movie Poster 

Estadella primarily argues that the movie poster lacks probative value and is extremely prejudicial. See Fed. R. Evid. 403. Estadella is wrong on both fronts. The district court did not abuse its discretion when it admitted the Scarface poster. 

As noted, a small Scarface poster sat atop a mess of files on the desk in the locked back office of the West 17th property. Estadella’s face was superimposed over the face of Al Pacino, who portrayed the fictional drug kingpin Tony Montana. 

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The poster depicting Estadella was highly relevant. Estadella’s defense rested, in part, on the lack of evidence that Estadella actually possessed the methamphetamine during the timeframe charged in the indictment. The poster helped show Estadella controlled the back room where the methamphetamine was found. Like signage for Estadella’s business or documents bearing his name, the placement of such personalized décor on the desk demonstrated (1) it was Estadella who controlled the locked back office; and (2) Estadella controlled the methamphetamine therein. Cf. United States v. Ochoa, 941 F.3d 1074, 1105 (11th Cir. 2019) (concluding presence of defendant’s phone, identification cards, and travel papers was sufficient evidence to support finding defendant controlled a shared residence’s bedroom and constructively possessed ammunition found therein). The Scarface poster had relevant probative value on a key factual dispute presented to the jury. 

The Scarface poster’s probative value was not substantially outweighed by the risk of unfair prejudice. As Estadella contends, it may be true that the movie Scarface contains (1) gruesome violence; (2) offensive portrayals of Cuban-Americans; and (3) a huge amount of violent drug trafficking. None of that violence is on the poster itself. While the poster may be damaging to Estadella’s innocence claims, its prejudicial effect was not “unfair.” See United States v. Kapordelis, 569 F.3d 1291, 1313 (11th Cir. 2009) (stating that “[d]emonstrating that a piece of evidence is prejudicial is not enough to warrant exclusion under Rule 403” because evidence must create risk of unfair prejudice). The risk of prejudice 

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from the movie’s contents, if any, was slight since its contents were not shown. Plus, as the district court reasoned, many people today are not familiar with that 1983 movie. 

The district court even indicated it was willing to entertain giving a cautionary instruction regarding at least some of Estadella’s concerns, but Estadella never requested such an instruction. 

Estadella has shown no abuse of discretion in the district court’s admission of the Scarface poster. 

D. YouTube Music Video 

Estadella contends that the YouTube music video was irrelevant to the crimes charged and extremely prejudicial. As explained earlier, the music video depicts Estadella and others playing poker at a table covered in poker chips and firearm magazines. Detective Mui identified Estadella as in the video. The singer raps in Spanish and holds a pistol. The video includes a close-up shot of a plate covered by suspected narcotics. Dianellys testified that Estadella’s hands held the plate, although Estadella’s body and face were not visible at that point in the video. 

Evidence of a defendant’s “other crime, wrong, or act is not admissible to prove a person’s character in order to show that on a particular occasion the person acted in accordance with the character.” Fed. R. Evid. 404(b)(1). But, among other permissible purposes, such evidence may be admitted to prove a defendant’s intent. Fed. R. Evid. 404(b)(2). To be admissible, other acts evidence 

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must satisfy a three-part test: “(1) it must be relevant to an issue other than defendant’s character; (2) there must be sufficient proof to enable a jury to find by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant committed the act(s) in question; and (3) . . . the evidence must satisfy Rule 403.” United States v. Cenephat, 115 F.4th 1359, 1365 (11th Cir. 2024) (per curiam) (quoting Edouard, 485 F.3d at 1344). 

The music video meets all three criteria. First, as the district court found, the music video was relevant for permissible, non-character purposes, including Estadella’s knowledge of guns and drugs in the West 17th property, intent, and absence of surprise or mistake. 

Second, the government introduced sufficient evidence to allow a reasonable jury to conclude that (1) Estadella appeared in the music video; (2) the music video was filmed in the West 17th property; and (3) the music video contained ammunition and narcotics. The government played the music video for the jury. Detective Mui testified that he recognized Estadella in the video based on distinctive tattoos. Mui also identified the house in the video as the West 17th property he searched with other detectives. Mui said the video showed rifle magazines and “suspected narcotics.” 

Third, turning to Rule 403, the probative value of the music video was not substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice. See Fed. R. Evid. 403. 

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Estadella’s brief cursorily contends that the music video is irrelevant and could cause the jury to be “misled.” This Court has considered rap music videos in prior cases, two of which we discuss. See United States v. Gamory, 635 F.3d 480, 494 (11th Cir. 2011); United States v. Jones, 166 F.4th 92, 104-05 (11th Cir. Jan. 22, 2026). 

Consider Gamory, a cocaine and marijuana distribution and money laundering case. 635 F.3d at 485. The rap music video introduced at that trial contained lyrics that (1) “deal[t] with drugs, sex, profanity, degradation of women, firearms, and threats of violence against the police and public”; and (2) “could reasonably be understood as promoting a violent and unlawful lifestyle.” Id. at 488, 493. Critically, the defendant (Gamory) did not appear in the video, which meant it therefore lacked probative value of the defendant’s guilt. Id. at 493. Our Court also pointed out that there was no evidence “that Gamory authored the lyrics or that the views and values reflected in the video were, in fact, adopted or shared by Gamory.” Id. 

Although holding the music video in Gamory should have been excluded under Rule 403, this Court affirmed the defendant’s convictions because other evidence established the defendant’s guilt, the video was cumulative, and the error was harmless. Id. at 494. 

Now consider Jones, where the defendant was in the music video. The district court admitted (1) a 29-second video showing the defendant rapping and wielding a gun; (2) screenshots from a 

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video showing cash, drugs, and the defendant handling various firearms; and (3) a note from the defendant’s phone featuring violent rap-music lyrics. Jones, 166 F.4th at 104. The defendant argued the government had not shown the guns, drugs, and cash depicted were even real. Id. The Jones Court agreed with the government that the evidence met the low bar of relevancy under Rule 401 to make a fact more or less probable. Id. But the Court emphasized that the video’s relevance was limited because the government’s witnesses could not tell whether the firearms depicted were real or props. Id. 

Ultimately, as to Rule 403’s balancing test, our Court said: “We needn’t definitively decide the Rule 403 issue, though, because we hold that any error in admitting the rap-related evidence was harmless.” Id. The Court reasoned that (1) “the government presented substantial proof, rap-related items aside, that [the defendant] knowingly possessed the two [firearms] at issue here”; and (2) “the jury was presented with ample evidence to convict” the defendant. Id. at 105. 

In this case, however, Estadella not only appears in the music video, but also is shown handling narcotics and sitting in near proximity to guns and ammo at the West 17th property where guns and drugs were later found. This video is highly probative for showing Estadella knowingly possessed both the guns and drugs at the West 17th property as charged in the indictment. See United States v. Jernigan, 341 F.3d 1273, 1281–82 (11th Cir. 2003) (collecting cases to conclude prior possession of a weapon can show the 

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defendant knowingly possessed a weapon on later occasion), abrogated in part on other grounds by, Rehaif v. United States, 588 U.S. 225 (2019). 

The district court also limited the jury’s consideration of this music video to “whether or not the defendant had the state of mind to commit the crimes that are charged in the indictment.” That instruction, which we “presume that [the] jurors follow[ed],” limited the risk that the video would be used for impermissible character or propensity purposes. United States v. Macrina, 109 F.4th 1341, 1350 (11th Cir. 2024). 

At bottom, we cannot say that the district court abused its discretion in admitting the YouTube music video under Rule 403 and 404(b). 

VI. SUFFICIENCY OF THE EVIDENCE 

Estadella argues that the district court erred by denying his Rule 29 motion for a judgment of acquittal as to Count 3’s charge of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Estadella contends the government introduced insufficient evidence to prove that Estadella (1) knowingly possessed methamphetamine found in the West 17th property, and (2) intended to distribute the methamphetamine. Estadella’s arguments wholly lack merit. Table setting is helpful first. 

A. Standard of Review 

The appellate standard of review of a denial of a Rule 29 motion for judgment of acquittal depends on whether a defendant 

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raised that specific ground for acquittal before the district court. See Al Jaberi, 97 F.4th at 1322. 

The parties do not dispute that Estadella’s Rule 29 motion as to Count 3 argued there was insufficient evidence that he possessed the methamphetamine found in the West 17th property. Estadella advances that same argument on appeal, and we accordingly review it de novo. See Hano, 922 F.3d at 1283; United States v. Green, 158 F.4th 1347, 1364 (11th Cir. 2025) (“[W]e review a preserved challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence de novo.” (citing United States v. Azmat, 805 F.3d 1018, 1035 (11th Cir. 2015))). 

The parties dispute, however, whether Estadella’s Rule 29 motion argued there was insufficient evidence that he had an intent to distribute methamphetamine. We need not resolve that disagreement. Regardless of the standard of review—de novo or plain error—we conclude that the district court properly denied Estadella’s Rule 29 motion as to proof of his intent to distribute the methamphetamine. We discuss possession and then intent. 

B. Possession 

The evidence amply supported the jury’s finding that Estadella possessed the methamphetamine charged in the indictment. 

Estadella stresses that, at the time of his arrest during a traffic stop, he was not physically present at the West 17th property where the drugs were found. This matters not because the evidence proved Estadella constructively possessed the drugs at that property by having “dominion and control over . . . the 

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premises on which the drugs [were] concealed.” United States v. Butler, 117 F.4th 1309, 1321 (11th Cir. 2024) (quoting United States v. Gamboa, 166 F.3d 1327, 1331 (11th Cir. 1999)). Multiple witnesses testified that Estadella resided at the West 17th property. Distinctive clothing seemingly worn by Estadella at the Star Motel shooting two days earlier was found at the property, including a “Miami” baseball cap that contained Estadella’s DNA. 

Moreover, Estadella exercised unique control over the back room and the methamphetamine within. Dianellys testified that Estadella placed a keypad lock on the door and used the space as an office. Estadella’s office contained (1) signage and records for Estadella’s business, J&M Electric; and (2) the Scarface poster depicting Estadella over the face of Al Pacino as Tony Montana. The jury could have reasonably, and easily too, concluded Estadella controlled the back office and, therefore, knowingly possessed the drugs therein. 

C. Intent to Distribute 

Similarly, the evidence fully supported the jury’s finding that Estadella intended to distribute the methamphetamine in his office. 

Estadella possessed a large quantity of methamphetamine—over 30 grams. See United States v. Cabezas-Montano, 949 F.3d 567, 596 (11th Cir. 2020) (“[W]e may infer a defendant’s intent to distribute from the large quantity of narcotics seized.”). Detective Gato and Special Agent Shaun Perry testified that amount was consistent with distribution, rather than personal use. 

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Estadella also possessed what Gato described as “basically everything that someone would need to sell or distribute narcotics”: numerous small baggies, spoons, and scales. All this evidence suggests that Estadella intended to traffic the drugs he possessed. 

In his briefing, Estadella tries to portray the methamphetamine recovered as a small amount for personal use by Estadella and his girlfriend, who are both methamphetamine addicts. The jury heard that argument during closing arguments and rejected it by returning a guilty verdict on Count 3. At this stage, we need not conclude that the evidence refutes every one of Estadella’s possible theories of his innocence because our only task on sufficiency-of-the-evidence review is to determine “whether a jury reasonably could have found guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.” United States v. Moran, 57 F.4th 977, 981 (11th Cir. 2023) (citation modified); United States v. Waymer, 55 F.3d 564, 570 (11th Cir. 1995). A jury could have reasonably done so here. 

In short, sufficient evidence supported the jury’s finding that Estadella possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and we discern no error in the district court’s denial of Estadella’s Rule 29 motion as to Count 3. 

VII. PROSECUTORIAL MISCONDUCT 

Estadella contends that the district court erred by overruling his objection to a comment made by the prosecutor during the government’s rebuttal argument. Again, we disagree. 

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During the government’s rebuttal argument to the jury, the prosecutor highlighted that Estadella’s closing argument was devoid of a detailed argument that Estadella had not possessed the guns underlying Counts 1 and 2. In full, the prosecutor said: 

Now, let’s start with what didn’t get covered a lot, although at the end, counsel talked a little bit about the guns, and only a little I suspect because try as he might to try to cast some doubt on what you saw with your own eyes, what was scientifically proven to you, forensically, photographically, through surveillance videos, it’s impossible to defend the indefensible. Estadella’s counsel objected to “personal innuendos,” but the district court overruled the objection. 

Prosecutorial misconduct occurs when a prosecutor makes remarks that “(1) were improper and (2) prejudiced the defendant’s substantive rights.” United States v. Spila, 136 F.4th 1296, 1306 (11th Cir. 2025) (quoting United States v. Foley, 508 F.3d 627, 637 (11th Cir. 2007)). “A prosecutor’s remarks, suggestions, insinuations, and assertions are improper when they are calculated to mislead or inflame the jury’s passions.” Azmat, 805 F.3d at 1044 (citing United States v. Rodriguez, 765 F.2d 1546, 1560 (11th Cir. 1985)). A defendant’s substantial rights are prejudicially affected by an improper remark “when there is a reasonable probability that, but for the improper comments, the result of the trial would have been different.” Id. (citing United States v. Lopez, 590 F.3d 1238, 1256 (11th Cir. 2009)). 

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We comfortably conclude the prosecutor’s comment during rebuttal argument was a permissible comment on the weight of the evidence. See Al Jaberi, 97 F.4th at 1329 (reasoning that prosecutors “may state conclusions drawn from the evidence” (quoting United States v. Bailey, 123 F.3d 1381, 1400 (11th Cir. 1997))); United States v. Tisdale, 817 F.2d 1552, 1556 (11th Cir. 1987) (holding argument regarding weight of evidence was not improper). Contrary to Estadella’s strained interpretations, the prosecutor’s comment was neither an attack on defense counsel nor an affront to Estadella’s right to present a complete defense. Simply put, the prosecutor’s comment was not improper. 

Even if the prosecutor’s comment was improper—and we do not mean to suggest it was—the comment did not create a reasonable possibility of a different outcome in Estadella’s trial. The jury had ample evidence of Estadella’s guilt on Counts 1, 2, and 3. Plus, the district court instructed the jury that the lawyers’ statements were neither evidence nor binding on their decision. The comment did not prejudice Estadella’s substantial rights. 

Accordingly, we discern no error in the district court overruling Estadella’s objection to the prosecutor’s comments. 

VIII. CUMULATIVE ERROR 

Estadella argues that the cumulative error doctrine applies to his case. “The cumulative-error doctrine calls for reversal of a conviction if, in total, the non-reversible errors result in a denial of the constitutional right to a fair trial.” Green, 158 F.4th at 1365 (quoting Pendergrass, 995 F.3d at 881). Of course, there can be no 

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cumulative error where there is no error or only a single error. Id. at 1373. Because Estadella has shown no error in any of the district court’s rulings, there is no cumulative error. 

IX. SENTENCE 

Estadella contends the district court applied an incorrect base offense level by holding him responsible for a quantity of “ice” methamphetamine, rather than merely a mixture containing methamphetamine. We do not agree. 

A. Presentence Investigation Report 

A probation officer prepared a presentence investigation report (“PSI”) using the 2021 Sentencing Guidelines Manual. Pursuant to U.S.S.G. § 3D1.2, the PSI grouped Estadella’s firearm and drug convictions on Counts 1 and 3 together. The PSI then used the higher base offense level for Count 3’s 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) drug conviction to determine Estadella’s total offense level. 

The PSI calculated a total offense level of 28, consisting of: (1) a base offense level of 26 based on between 20 and 35 grams of “ice”, pursuant to U.S.S.G. § 2D1.1(a)(5) and (c)(7); and (2) a two-level increase for possession of a dangerous weapon, pursuant to U.S.S.G. § 2D1.1(b)(1). With a total offense level of 28 and a criminal history category of I, the PSI calculated Estadella’s advisory guidelines imprisonment range to be 78 to 97 months. 

Estadella objected to the PSI’s application of a base offense level of 26. Estadella countered that the 28.3 grams of narcotics 

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described in the PSI should be treated as a mixture containing methamphetamine, as opposed to actual methamphetamine or ice. If sustained, the objection would lower Estadella’s base offense level from 26 to 18, since § 2D1.1’s drug quantity table provides higher base offense levels for actual methamphetamine or ice as compared to equal quantities of a less pure methamphetamine mixture. U.S.S.G. § 2D1.1(c)(7), (11).³ “Ice” is a purer form of methamphetamine and “means a mixture or substance containing d-methamphetamine hydrochloride of at least 80% purity.” Id. § 2D1.1(c). 

Estadella also moved for a downward variance, reasoning that the Sentencing Commission’s rationale for assigning higher offense levels to higher purity methamphetamine no longer serves its intended purpose. Estadella took issue with the commentary to § 2D1.1 that suggested upward departures may be appropriate based on drug purity because: 

The purity of the controlled substance . . . may be relevant in the sentencing process because it is probative of the defendant’s role or position in the chain of distribution. Since controlled substances are often diluted and combined with other substances as they pass down the chain of distribution, the fact that a defendant is in possession of unusually pure narcotics may indicate a prominent role in the 

3 _{Estadella also objected to the PSI’s application of a two-level increase for} firearm possession, but he does not raise any issues on appeal as to that two-level increase under U.S.S.G. § 2D1.1(b)(1). 

USCA11 Case: 23-11061 Document: 74-1 Date Filed: 02/20/2026 Page: 39 of 43 

23-11061 Opinion of the Court 39 

criminal enterprise and proximity to the source of the drugs. Id. § 2D1.1 cmt. n.27(C) (2021). In essence, Estadella says high purity methamphetamine has become cheaper and widely available, making purity a poor indicator of culpability. Estadella thus sought a sentence below his advisory guidelines range. 

B. Sentencing Hearing 

At Estadella’s sentencing hearing, the district court overruled Estadella’s objection to the base offense level used in the PSI. Estadella’s counsel tried to clarify that his argument rested on the fact the indictment charged Estadella with possessing a “mixture” of methamphetamine, rather than “actual” or “ice” methamphetamine. The district court found the net weight of actual methamphetamine or ice could nonetheless determine the base offense level since the indictment charged “the general crime,” and trial evidence showed Estadella had possessed 31 grams of methamphetamine with 93% purity. Therefore, the substance qualified as ice and weighed between 20 and 35 grams, within § 2D1.1(c)(7)’s range that called for a base offense level of 26. 

The district court declined to vary from the advisory guidelines range of 78 to 97 months of imprisonment. The district court rejected Estadella’s argument that drug purity should not affect the sentence, reasoning that a higher purity drug is more potent, more dangerous, more addictive, and more lethal. The 

USCA11 Case: 23-11061 Document: 74-1 Date Filed: 02/20/2026 Page: 40 of 43 

40 Opinion of the Court 23-11061 

district court found no reason to disregard the advisory guidelines range and vary downward. 

The district court sentenced Estadella to concurrent 96-month terms of imprisonment on Counts 1 and 3. 

C. Discussion 

As to drug quantity, the district court properly applied a base offense level of 26 under U.S.S.G. § 2D1.1(c)(7). 

Guidelines section 2D1.1 determines the offense level for possession with intent to distribute convictions under 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1). U.S.S.G. app. A. Section 2D1.1’s drug quantity table, in turn, sets base offense levels for different controlled substances and substance quantities. Id. § 2D1.1(a)(5). As relevant here, a defendant possessing between 20 and 35 grams of actual methamphetamine or ice receives a base offense level of 26. Id. § 2D1.1(c)(7). As opposed to these pure forms of methamphetamine, a defendant possessing between 20 and 35 grams of a “mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of” methamphetamine receives a base offense level of 18. Id. § 2D1.1(c)(11), n.(A). 

Estadella has not shown that the district court’s finding he possessed between 20 and 35 grams of ice was unsupported by the evidence. To the contrary, the district court recounted DEA forensic chemist Manuel Febo’s trial testimony that the substances recovered from Estadella’s office were 31 grams of 93% pure methamphetamine. The purity causes the substance to qualify as “ice,” and the quantity falls within the range set out in 

USCA11 Case: 23-11061 Document: 74-1 Date Filed: 02/20/2026 Page: 41 of 43 

23-11061 Opinion of the Court 41 

§ 2D1.1(c)(7). The district court did not err by applying § 2D1.1(c)(7) and assigning Estadella a base offense level of 26. 

Estadella’s policy argument that the Guidelines unjustifiably provide for harsher sentences for higher purity methamphetamine has no bearing on the calculation of his base offense level. Estadella made that argument to the district court in his motion for a downward variance, and the district court rejected it. Estadella does not challenge the denial of a variance. So, we do not review that decision here. We decline to disturb Estadella’s 96-month sentence. 

X. CONCLUSION 

We AFFIRM Estadella’s two convictions and his sentence. 

AFFIRMED. 

USCA11 Case: 23-11061 Document: 74-1 Date Filed: 02/20/2026 Page: 42 of 43 

1 JORDAN, J., Concurring 23-11061 

JORDAN, Circuit Judge, Concurring: 

I join all of Judge Hull’s opinion for the court with the ex- ception of Parts IV.E and VII, as to which I concur in the judgment. I would reject Mr. Estadella’s challenge to the denial of his motion to suppress the evidence found at the West 17th Street property on a different ground. As for Mr. Estadella’s challenge to the prosecu- tor’s comment during rebuttal closing, I would hold only that the comment, if error, was harmless given the evidence presented by the government. 

The district court denied Mr. Estadella’s motion to suppress based on alternative rationales. First, Mr. Soriano had the actual authority to consent to a search because he was a co-possessor of the property. Second, the officers reasonably relied on Mr. So- riano’s apparent authority over the property. Third, Dianellys had authority to consent to a search because under Mr. Soriano’s quit- claim deed—which became effective on the date of execution—she was the owner of the property. 

In the Eleventh Circuit, “[t]o obtain reversal of a district court judgment that is based on multiple, independent grounds, an appellant must convince us that every stated ground for the judg- ment against him is incorrect.” Sapuppo v. Allstate Floridian Ins. Co., 739 F.3d 678, 680 (11th Cir. 2014). “When an appellant fails to chal- lenge properly on appeal one of the grounds on which the district court based its judgment, he is deemed to have abandoned any challenge of that ground, and it follows that the judgment is due to be affirmed.” Id. (citing Little v. T-Mobile USA, Inc., 691 F.3d 1302, 

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23-11061 JORDAN, J., Concurring 2 

1306 (11th Cir. 2012)). In his initial brief, Mr. Estadella did not chal- lenge the district court’s third rationale—that Dianellys had author- ity to consent to a search. Because that rationale stands, Mr. Es- tadella’s suppression argument fails. 

Moving on to the prosecutor’s statement during rebuttal closing that “it’s impossible to defend the indefensible,” it is an open question whether that type of remark should be viewed as a fair comment on the evidence or an implicit attack on defense counsel. Cf. United States v. Nunez, 532 F.3d 645, 653 (7th Cir. 2008) (reviewing a prosecutor’s statement “that defense counsel had a dif- ficult job, but that ‘he’s stuck with his client in the case,’” for plain error and finding no impropriety because, when taken in context, the statement “struck at the weakness of the defense” rather than attacking defense counsel); Demirdjian v. Gipson, 832 F.3d 1060, 1070 (9th Cir. 2016) (holding, in a habeas corpus case, that the prosecu- tor’s statements calling the defense’s theory “smoke and mirrors” “arguably were ‘directed to “the strength of the defense on the merits”’ and thus were not an impermissible ‘ad hominem attack on defense counsel’” but describing it as a close case). My preference is to hold, as the court ultimately does, that the statement was at most harmless error due to the strength of the evidence presented by the government. Cf. Tarpley v. Duer, 841 F.2d 359, 361 (11th Cir. 1987) (holding, in a habeas corpus case, that the prosecutor calling a defense theory “unbelievable” and asking how low defense coun- sel would go did not deprive the defendant of a fair trial under due process principles, in part because of the trial court’s curative in- structions). 

Reflecting on today’s PD13 Street Legal event at the University Community Resource Center, it is clear that the legal landscape in Hillsborough County is evolving toward a more accessible, community-centered model. As a Tampa attorney, I see daily how transportation barriers, rigid work schedules, and basic survival needs often prevent individuals from resolving legal issues before they escalate into life-altering crises.

Under the leadership of Lisa McLean, the Office of the Public Defender, 13th Judicial Circuit is meeting those challenges directly. By bringing services into neighborhoods rather than requiring residents to travel downtown, the office is removing practical obstacles that too often stand between people and justice. The inaugural Saturday session demonstrated that when legal professionals meet people where they are, they offer more than advice; they offer stability.

The Power of Holistic Defense in Tampa

The “Street Legal” initiative reflects the nationally recognized holistic defense approach. In many cases, a criminal charge in Tampa is not an isolated legal issue. It is intertwined with housing insecurity, untreated medical conditions, mental health struggles, or financial instability.

Several respected community partners were present:

• Bay Area Legal Services — assisting with civil matters such as evictions and custody disputes.
• Tampa Family Health Centers — expanding access to affordable healthcare.
• Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative — helping residents secure stable housing.
• Ibis Healthcare — formerly Gracepoint, providing essential mental health services.

This integrated approach recognizes that resolving legal problems often requires addressing the underlying life circumstances that contribute to them.

Equal Access Means Equal Justice

One of the most important themes of the event was “equal access.” If someone cannot afford a bus pass or cannot take time off work to appear at a downtown office, meaningful access to the justice system becomes theoretical. By establishing services in the University area—one of the highest-density zip codes for Public Defender clients—the office eliminates what many experience as a “distance tax” on justice.

As McLean noted, individuals struggling to secure food or shelter are understandably not focused on navigating complex legal procedures. Addressing root causes such as housing and food insecurity strengthens not only individual outcomes but community safety across Tampa.

Transparency and Community Trust

The presence of representatives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Corrections also signaled a positive move toward transparency. Providing direct access to probation and jail information in a community setting helps demystify the legal process and builds trust.

A New Standard for Legal Services in Hillsborough County

Initiatives like “PD13 Street Legal” set a new benchmark for accessible legal services in Tampa. Justice should not depend on zip code, income, or transportation access. Community-based outreach reflects what modern legal service delivery should look like—responsive, transparent, and rooted in real-world challenges.

For residents with matters pending before the Public Defender’s office who face barriers getting downtown, monthly Saturday sessions offer a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with their cases and move forward.

This is what accessible justice looks like in Hillsborough County: practical, compassionate, and community-driven.

#TampaLaw #HillsboroughCounty #AccessToJustice #CommunityDefense #TampaAttorney #howcanihelp

Gasparilla is one of the largest DUI enforcement weekends in Hillsborough County. As a Gasparilla DUI lawyer in Tampa, I defend clients arrested for DUI throughout downtown Tampa, Ybor City, Channelside, and surrounding areas.

Under Florida Statute §316.193, DUI applies if a person is driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired or with a BAC of .08 or higher.

Official statute: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/316.193
Justia: https://law.justia.com/codes/florida/2024/title-xxiii/chapter-316/section-316-193/

Why Gasparilla DUI Arrests Are Different

Gasparilla DUI cases often involve:

• Heavy foot and vehicle traffic
• Parked-car DUI allegations
• Field sobriety tests in crowded conditions
• Intoxilyzer testing under rushed conditions

I focus on suppressing evidence, challenging breath testing, and attacking probable cause.

➡️ Learn more about Gasparilla-related arrests here: Gasparilla Arrest & Notice to Appear Guide

❓ Gasparilla DUI – Frequently Asked Questions

Gasparilla brings massive marine enforcement to Tampa Bay. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests are aggressively pursued by FWC, Tampa Police Marine Unit, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Under Florida Statute §327.35, BUI penalties mirror DUI penalties.

Official statute: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/327.35
Justia: https://law.justia.com/codes/florida/2024/title-xxiii/chapter-327/section-327-35/

Why BUI Cases Are Highly Defensible

On the water:

• Boats are unstable
• Balance tests are unreliable
• Officers often misinterpret boating behavior

I routinely challenge BUI arrests based on improper stops and unreliable testing.

❓ Gasparilla Boating Under the Influence (BUI) – Frequently Asked Questions

Gasparilla Arrests Are Different — Get Real Legal Help Fast

Gasparilla brings massive police presence from Tampa PD, Hillsborough County, FWC, and the Coast Guard. DUI, BUI, open container violations, and Notices to Appear are aggressively enforced.

If you or someone you love was arrested during Gasparilla, timing matters. Court dates, license issues, and criminal records move fast.

📍 Tampa & Hillsborough County
📞 Call (813) 222-2220

“Super Speeders” are treated as extreme offenders — and enforcement is already underway across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and local sheriff’s offices.

Florida “Super Speeder” Law (§ 316.1922)

By W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr., Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer
Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. — Tampa, Florida
📞 Contact Us | ☎️ (813) 222-2220

🚨 Facing a Florida “Super Speeder” Charge?

If you were stopped for driving 50+ mph over the limit or 100 mph or faster, you may be facing serious consequences under Florida’s new Super Speeder Law (§ 316.1922, Fla. Stat.).

What was once a hefty traffic ticket is now a potentially criminal offense, carrying mandatory court appearances, possible jail time, and long-term license and insurance consequences.

Under this 2025 law, “Super Speeders” are treated as extreme offenders — and enforcement is already underway across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and local sheriff’s offices.

📞 Free Case Review – Call (813) 222-2220

If you’ve been accused of extreme speeding, don’t face it alone.
Contact Tampa Defense Attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. — a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer with decades of courtroom experience.
📩 Schedule a Consultation today.

⚖️ Florida Statute § 316.1922 — The “Super Speeder” Law Explained

Effective July 1, 2025, Florida enacted § 316.1922 to combat extreme speeding.
Drivers can now face enhanced penalties if they:

• Exceed the posted limit by 50 mph or more, or
• Drive 100 mph or faster, regardless of the posted limit.

The Florida Legislature modeled the law after Georgia’s 2010 “Super Speeder” statute, but Florida’s version goes further — allowing criminal prosecution, not just surcharges.

Key Takeaways:

• Mandatory court appearance for every charge
• Possible jail sentence (up to 90 days)
• License suspension up to one year
• Fine range: $1,000 – $2,500
• 6+ license points
• Insurance rate increases and SR-22 requirement possible

🖼️ Florida Super Speeder Timeline Infographic

The Florida Super Speeder Timeline Infographic Shows the Process:

1. Stop – FHP or local police initiate a traffic stop.
2. Speed Measured – Radar, LIDAR, or pacing confirms 50+ mph over or 100+ mph.
3. Officer Decision – Citation or arrest decision made at the scene.
4. Court Appearance Required – No online payment permitted.
5. Fine / Jail / License Impact – Potential criminal penalties imposed.

📊 Penalties Under Florida’s “Super Speeder” Law

Source: Florida Statutes § 316.1922; § 322.27; Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

🚔 Enforcement by County (Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco)

Based on 2025 social-media enforcement reports and agency summaries.

⚙️ How the “Super Speeder” Law Changes Florida Traffic Defense

Before 2025, a 100 mph speeding ticket was a noncriminal infraction.
Now, depending on the facts, prosecutors can file criminal charges under § 316.1922 or related statutes such as:

• Reckless Driving (§ 316.192)
• Racing on Highways (§ 316.191)
• Fleeing to Elude (§ 316.1935)

Key Impacts:

• Mandatory arrest authority: Officers can detain violators.
• Mandatory court date: No option to prepay fines.
• Insurance reporting: Convictions trigger insurer notifications.
• Driver’s license review: Suspension possible under § 322.27(3).

🧠 Defenses to “Super Speeder” Charges

Attorney Casey Ebsary uses decades of traffic litigation and technology knowledge to challenge evidence in these cases.

Common defense strategies include:

1. Radar / LIDAR Calibration Issues – Speed-measurement devices must be certified and logged.
2. Improper Pacing Technique – Officer pacing must be continuous and verified.
3. Signage or Zone Errors – Posted speed limits must be proven.
4. Misidentification of Driver – Photo and dashcam analysis can reveal error.
5. Unlawful Traffic Stop – Fourth Amendment violations can suppress evidence.

If proven, these defenses can lead to dismissal or reduction to a non-criminal infraction.

📞 Need Help Right Now?

Facing a Super Speeder citation in Tampa Bay?
📱 Call (813) 222-2220 or contact us online.
Learn more about your lawyer: About W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr.

🧾 Comparison: Florida vs. Neighboring States

Florida’s law is now among the strictest in the nation.

🧩 Related Offenses

• Reckless Driving (§ 316.192)
• Racing on Highways (§ 316.191)
• Fleeing and Eluding (§ 316.1935)
• Careless Driving (§ 316.1925)

These can overlap with a Super Speeder charge, increasing exposure to jail and longer suspensions.

💬 Top 10 Questions About Florida’s “Super Speeder” Law

⚖️ Why Choose Attorney W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr.

• Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer — A distinction earned by less than 1% of Florida attorneys.
• Former Prosecutor — Knows how the State builds traffic and criminal cases.
• Technology Expert — Experienced with radar, GPS, and digital evidence used in traffic cases.
• Proven Track Record — Decades defending drivers in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties.

Areas Served:

Tampa • Brandon • Clearwater • St. Petersburg • New Port Richey • Dade City

📞 Final Call to Action

If you’ve received a Super Speeder citation, Reckless Driving, or Racing charge — time matters.
A mandatory court date means you should act immediately.

👉 Contact W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. today:
📱 (813) 222-2220
📩 Contact Form
👤 Attorney Bio

Protect your license, your record, and your future.

🔗 Helpful Resources

• Florida Statute § 316.1922 – Super Speeders
• Florida Highway Patrol – Troop C (Official Site)
• Florida DHSMV – Driver License Penalties

© 2025 Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr.
Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by The Florida Bar
📍 Tampa, Florida | Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties

Cell phone tower evidence defense lawyer in Tampa notes that Cell phone tracking data has become a cornerstone of modern criminal cases, but its presentation in court is often flawed and misleading. We cut through the confusion surrounding Call Data Records (CDRs), cell tower coverage, and the “widely accepted methodologies” that can lead to wrongful conclusions. If your case involves cell phone evidence, understanding the vast difference between an accurate, scientific exhibit and a biased, “wedge”-shaped depiction is critical to your defense. Don’t let flawed technology send you to jail—contact experienced attorney W. F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. today for a free consultation to review your cell phone tracking evidence and build a rigorous defense. Call us at (813) 222-2220 or visit our Contact Page.

Ben Levitan is a distinguished Wireless Cellular Telecommunications Expert with over 30 years of experience, having worked for industry giants like Verizon, Sprint, and Alcatel, and holding several patents in cellular technology. He currently serves as a highly sought-after expert witness who helps Cell Phone Tower Defense Lawyers and specializes in disproving flawed location testimony often presented by law enforcement, asserting that while raw cell phone data is reliable, the “widely accepted methodologies” used to interpret it are scientifically inaccurate. Mr. Levitan is certified to testify in Federal and State courts and regularly assists legal counsel in complex criminal and civil matters, providing invaluable defense strategies and technical tutorials; you can learn more about his expertise at www.BenLevitan.com.

Cell Phone Records

Cell phone records have become a key part of trials since about 2001.  And since 2001, incorrect and unscientific testimony from non-experts has resulted in wrongful convictions.  And AI promises to make this worse.

Every time you make a call, receive a call, send or receive a text message, or open and use a data application, the phone company creates a records.  These are the records the prosecutors will try to use against you.  This record contains:

• Type of Activity (Usually, Voice Call, Data User, or Text Message)
• Start and stop time of the activity
• Cell Tower(s) Used.

This records is used by phone companies for billing.  We use this to bill you for your call or amount of data you used.  We used these often to pay the cell tower provider.  Many cell towers are privately owned, and we pay to use them.

These records are for billing but contain enough technical information that they can be used as evidence in court, IF the presenter has specialized knowledge of the records.

Cell Phone Tracking Case Study

Take the case of an incident at a restaurant, in Ybor City, Florida at 12:00 PM on a specific date.   The state’s “expert” presents this exhibit:

A cell phone record for the defendant’s phone shows that at 12:05 PM he placed a called to his girlfriend.  The record also shows that at the time he placed this call his phone was connected to the cell tower located at 300 N. Franklin Street in Tampa.  That cell tower is the tower your phone would connected to, if you were at the location of the incident.  The cell phone records are highly reliable.  As a juror, what would you conclude?  It seems that the defendant was in the area of the incident. 

Cell Phone Expert Opinion

Where are the flaws in the “expert’s” opinion?

1.  The “Wedge” is always your first clue.  Radio, broadcast as a circle, and it’s broadcast area is always shown as a circle.  This wedge can only be accomplished by a garden hose, not a radio signal.  The area should be shown as a circular area.

2.  The “Coverage Area” has no limit.  How far out does this coverage area go?  As an open jaw, this implies that if the defendant’s phone was anywhere within these arms at any distance from the tower, the state would say he was at the scene of the incident.  Remember, when you leave the area of one cell tower, you have to hand off to the next area.  Where is the boundaries here?

3.  The “Scale” is deceptive.  The location of the incident is a restaurant in Tampa.  But looking at the expert’s exhibit you’ll see that the restaurant covers about four square blocks.  Wow, that must be some place.  This is prejudicial, as it unfairly changes the scale of the restaurant and makes it more certain to a juror that the defendant was at or near the incident scene.

Coverage of a cell tower is circular

What would an accurate exhibit look like?

This depiction is scientifically sound:

1.  The coverage of a cell tower is circular.  This is how are radio signal broadcasts.

2.  A cell tower’s broadcast area will typically be five miles wide.  Cell towers are very expensive so cell phone companies want to cover the maximum area they can, with the fewest possible cell towers.  Cell towers are laid out in a very specific pattern that minimizes the number of cell towers a phone company needs.

3.  Cell phone records cannot pinpoint your location.  They simply indicate which cell tower coverage area you were located when you used your phone.  That being said, this defendant’s cellphone was in the coverage area of the cell tower that you would use if you were at the incident location.  But can the expert claim you were at the incident location or near it?

4.  Let’s look again at the coverage area of this cell tower.  What does this tell a juror?

• The defendant’s phone was in the coverage area of the cell tower at 300 N. Franklin Street in Tampa.  A phone being used at the incident would also use the cell tower at  300 N. Franklin Street.
• This cell tower covers a circular area that is five miles across.  How big an area is this?  The area of this circle (remember Algebra? Pie R Squared?) is 19 square miles.
• 19 square miles is the same area as 9,503 NFL football fields. 
• The only fact an expert can state is that the defendant’s phone was in an area that is the size of 9,503 NFL Football fields.  
• Certainly, that is not evidence that the defendant was at the scene of the crime, “beyond a reasonable doubt.”

The prosecutor’s expert made it seem that the defendant being connected to this cell tower placed him in close vicinity to the incident location.  Now, what do the juror think?  Likely, that they can’t excluded him from being there, but there is no proof yet that he was there.

5.   In this specific case, the Cell Phone Tower Defense Lawyer and defendant claimed he was at work at St. Joseph’s Hospital, (shown inside the coverage area to the upper left) and left work, called his girlfriend and told her he was headed home.  Home was the JB Apartments, also within the coverage area of the Franklin Street tower as well, and is shown inside the top of the coverage area.  His alibi is consistent with the facts presented by the cell phone evidence.

Cell phone records in criminal cases are very important and very scientific, however it is important that these records be explained accurately to assure that a fair picture is shown.  Always be sure that if cell phone evidence is being presented in a criminal case, that it is being done correctly.

10 Q&A on Cell Phone Tracking Evidence

Questions and Answers

About the Author

10 More Cell Phone Evidence Q&A

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

1. Motion to Suppress Evidence – Challenge illegal stops or searches.
2. Review of Body Camera Footage – Expose inconsistencies or officer errors.
3. Witness Interviews – Secure statements from other students or bystanders.
4. Negotiation with Prosecutors – Seek reduced or dismissed charges.
5. 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

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

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

Chart: Comparing Campus Police and City Police

Table: Potential Penalties for Common USF Arrest and Charges

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.

👉 Request a Confidential Consultation Now
📍 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
👤 View Attorney Profile

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.

Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer in Florida, is already defending clients charged under Florida’s expanded fleeing and eluding law 316.1935. HB 113 (House Bill 113 jargon for new law in Florida), effective in 2025, significantly increases penalties for anyone who fails to stop when directed by law enforcement. These changes affect everything from slow-speed evasions to high-speed chases, including motorcycles, ATVs, golf carts, and other off-road vehicles.

Whether a driver panicked, misunderstood police instructions, or made a split-second judgment call, HB 113 now elevates nearly all attempts to flee law enforcement into serious felony offenses with harsher prison exposure.

Attorney Casey Ebsary has long represented individuals charged under Florida Statute §316.1935 — Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer — and his experience positions him to navigate the new complexities introduced by HB 113.

What HB 113 Means for Florida Drivers

HB 113 enhances penalties and expands the scope of Florida’s fleeing and eluding statute. Key takeaways include:

• Increased penalties at all levels of fleeing or eluding, not only high-speed chases.
• Expanded definitions of “fleeing,” including delayed compliance or slow-speed evasion.
• Encouragement for prosecutors to seek jail or prison time rather than probation.
• Potential expansion of vehicle forfeiture authority in intentional fleeing cases.

Even first-time offenders now face longer prison terms and reduced chances for probation or withhold of adjudication.

Florida Statute §316.1935 — Fleeing or Attempting to Elude

Reference: Florida Statute §316.1935 on Justia

HB 113 changes the enforcement landscape by pushing prosecutors and judges toward mandatory incarceration, even in cases where no injury occurs.

Updated Penalty Structure Under HB 113

Bottom line: Even brief hesitation or delayed stopping can trigger serious felony exposure.

316.1935 Infographic – Florida Fleeing & Attempting to Elude Law Enforcement

What Counts as “Fleeing”

• Missed police lights or delayed recognition
• Pulling over at a “safe” location instead of immediately
• Panic or uncertainty while driving
• Motorcycle or ATV hesitation on highway
• Unmarked vehicle confusion

Top Defense Strategies

• No clear signal to stop
• Stopping safely ≠ evasion
• Unmarked vehicles create reasonable doubt
• Medical or mechanical emergencies

Call Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220 — Protect your freedom, driving record, and reputation today.

What Counts as Fleeing Under HB 113?

Many drivers are surprised by how broadly Florida now defines “fleeing”:

• You do not need to be in a high-speed chase.
• Delayed compliance or slow-speed evasion may be treated as felony conduct.
• HB 113 applies to all vehicles, including motorcycles, golf carts, and off-road ATVs.

Intent matters less than actual behavior: a few seconds of hesitation can lead to a criminal charge.

Top 5 Defense Strategies for 316.1935 Cases

Attorney Ebsary emphasizes that every fleeing charge must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Potential defense approaches include:

1. No Clear Signal to Stop – Lights or sirens may not have been visible or audible.
2. Stopping in a Safe Location – Delayed compliance can be framed as safety-conscious, not evasion.
3. Unmarked Vehicle Confusion – Following unmarked or poorly identified vehicles can create reasonable doubt.
4. Medical or Mechanical Emergency – Emergencies can negate criminal intent.
5. Minimal Speed or Traffic Constraints – Low-speed delays due to traffic or road conditions can impact the case.

Quick Q&A — Florida 316.1935 HB 113 & Fleeing/Eluding Law

Why Choose Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.

Attorney Casey Ebsary is a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer with extensive experience defending fleeing and eluding cases in Florida. His practice spans Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Hernando, and Central Florida. He combines courtroom experience, technology expertise, and a nuanced understanding of Florida’s evolving statutes to protect his clients’ freedom, driving records, and reputations.

Learn more about Attorney Ebsary: Bio Page

Final Call to Action

Florida HB 113 creates broad criminal exposure for drivers who hesitate, panic, or delay compliance when interacting with law enforcement. Good people can make split-second errors — but under the new law, these mistakes carry long-lasting felony consequences.

Protect yourself now. Contact a skilled attorney who understands the law inside and out.

📞 Call Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220
🔗 Contact Page: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/
🔗 About Attorney Ebsary: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/

Attorney Ebsary fights to reduce or dismiss fleeing charges, negotiate withholds of adjudication, and safeguard your driving record, freedom, and reputation.

Extended Q&A — Florida HB 113 & Fleeing/Eluding Law

Being charged with passing a worthless check, especially under WOCK3015 – Worthless Check (Business Account), is a serious matter in Florida. These cases often involve allegations that a business wrote a check without sufficient funds in its account, leading to possible misdemeanor or felony charges under Florida Statute 832.05. While some cases are misunderstandings, prosecutors can be aggressive in pursuing charges because they view them as both theft-related and fraudulent.

If you or your business has been accused of issuing a worthless check, it’s essential to understand the law, the penalties, and the possible defenses available. As a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer, I help businesses, owners, and professionals protect their reputations and fight back against criminal accusations.

Understanding WOCK3015 – Worthless Check (Business Account)

The charge WOCK3015 refers specifically to the allegation that a business, not just an individual, issued a check that was dishonored due to insufficient funds, closed accounts, or intentional fraud. The law treats business accounts differently because checks from a business often involve larger amounts and can affect multiple parties, such as vendors, suppliers, or contractors.

Under Florida Statute 832.05, it is unlawful to issue a check with the intent to defraud, knowing that the account has insufficient funds or that the account is closed. The prosecution must prove that the check was issued deliberately without the ability or intent to pay.

Key Elements of the Offense

For prosecutors to convict someone under WOCK3015, they must prove:

1. A check was issued – The check came from a business account.
2. Insufficient funds – The bank dishonored the check due to lack of funds, a closed account, or other issues.
3. Intent to defraud – The person who signed the check knew or should have known that there were insufficient funds and intended to deceive the payee.
4. Notice was provided – The payee or state provided notice of dishonor, giving the business a chance to make the check good.

Penalties for Worthless Check (Business Account)

The penalties depend on the amount of the check and whether the defendant has prior convictions. Florida law provides:

In addition to criminal penalties, the business and owner may face civil liability, including restitution, treble damages, and attorney’s fees under Fla. Stat. §68.065.

Common Scenarios That Lead to WOCK3015 Charges

• A business issues a check to a supplier when the account is low.
• Accounting errors cause overdrafts that bounce multiple checks.
• An employee writes unauthorized checks on the business account.
• A business account is closed, but automatic payments or issued checks still hit the account.
• A vendor accuses a business of intentionally writing a worthless check to avoid payment.

Top 5 Defenses to WOCK3015 Charges

Not every bounced check amounts to a crime. In fact, many worthless check allegations can be defended. Some of the strongest defenses include:

• Lack of Intent to Defraud – Mistakes happen; accounting errors, delayed deposits, or bookkeeping mix-ups are not criminal.
• Postdated Checks – Florida law recognizes that postdated checks are not necessarily issued with fraudulent intent.
• Bank Errors – Sometimes the bank makes mistakes in processing deposits or withdrawals.
• Prompt Payment – If the business makes the check good after notice, this can defeat the prosecution’s claim of intent to defraud.
• Insufficient Evidence – The State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person issuing the check intended to deceive.

The Criminal Process for Worthless Check Cases

1. Notice of Dishonor – The payee typically sends a certified demand letter giving the business time to correct the issue.
2. Investigation – Law enforcement or the State Attorney’s Office investigates. Many Florida jurisdictions have worthless check diversion programs.
3. Charges Filed – If restitution is not made, the prosecutor may file a WOCK3015 charge.
4. Arraignment – The defendant appears in court and enters a plea.
5. Defense Strategy – An attorney may negotiate restitution, diversion, dismissal, or prepare for trial.

Diversion and Restitution Programs

Many Florida counties have worthless check diversion programs, which allow businesses or individuals to avoid a criminal conviction by:

• Paying full restitution to the victim.
• Paying administrative fees.
• Completing a financial responsibility course.

Successful completion usually results in dismissal of the charges. This option is particularly important for business owners trying to protect their reputation.

Collateral Consequences of a Worthless Check Conviction

Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction for WOCK3015 can have lasting effects:

• Damage to Business Reputation – Vendors and customers may lose trust.
• Professional Licensing Issues – Professionals (lawyers, doctors, contractors, etc.) may face disciplinary action.
• Credit and Financial Impact – Civil judgments can damage credit and hinder future loans.
• Employment Barriers – Employers often view theft- or fraud-related crimes as disqualifying.

Case Law Insights

Florida courts have made clear that intent is the key factor in worthless check cases. Courts emphasize that simply bouncing a check does not prove fraud—prosecutors must show intent at the time of issuance. This means many cases hinge on circumstantial evidence, such as the account balance, history of similar incidents, and whether restitution was offered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Hire a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer?

Not every defense attorney in Florida is Board Certified by the Florida Bar. Certification means I have been evaluated for trial experience, legal knowledge, and professional reputation. When facing a charge like WOCK3015, you need more than just an attorney—you need someone who understands both criminal defense and the financial/business aspects of these cases.

Call to Action

If you or your business has been accused of passing a worthless check in Florida, time is critical. The sooner you take action, the more options you may have to avoid a conviction, protect your reputation, and safeguard your business.

📞 Call the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220 for a confidential consultation today.

Or visit our contact page: CentralLaw.com Contact Us

In today’s digital world, people frequently turn to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms to vent frustration, make jokes, or engage in heated debates. But when does a facebook threat go too far? Under Florida law, certain posts—especially those that involve threats of violence—can be prosecuted as true threats. Even if the author insists they were “just joking” or exaggerating, courts can and do interpret online comments as criminal threats.

When to Call a Lawyer

If you or a loved one is facing charges for a facebook threat or something posted on Facebook or any other platform, time is critical. Even a comment made in the heat of the moment can become the basis for a serious felony charge. Don’t gamble your future on the assumption that “no one took it seriously.”

🚨 Protect Yourself—Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

I’m W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., a Florida Bar Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer with decades of experience defending clients in both state and federal courts. I understand the nuances of “true threat” cases, First Amendment issues, and how prosecutors handle social media-based charges.

📞 Call today at (813) 222-2220 or
🔗 Visit my contact page to schedule a confidential consultation.

The Rodney Keith Jones Case: A Wake-Up Call for Facebook Users

One of the clearest examples of Florida courts taking social media facebook threats seriously is the case of Rodney Keith Jones. In this case, the defendant posted on Facebook a series of messages that included graphic language and threats against a named individual. He later claimed the posts were just emotional outbursts and didn’t mean actual harm.

However, the court didn’t buy that argument. The language used in the facebook threat was explicit, violent, and followed by serious phrases like “I mean that s**.”* The court ruled that these statements constituted a “true threat” under Florida law—even if the defendant didn’t intend to act on them. The key was how a reasonable person would interpret the message, not the defendant’s personal intent.

What Is a “True Threat”?

Florida law makes it a crime to communicate threats that can reasonably be interpreted as genuine threats of violence. The term “true threat” is rooted in constitutional law. While the First Amendment protects free speech, it does not protect speech that crosses the line into threats of violence, stalking, or incitement.

According to Florida Statute § 836.10, it is illegal to send a written or electronic communication that contains a threat to kill or do bodily harm to another person. This includes emails, text messages, and yes—Facebook posts.

Additionally, Florida Statute § 836.12(2)(a) specifically criminalizes written threats to conduct mass shootings or acts of terrorism, whether or not there was intent to carry them out.

Key Elements of a “True Threat” Under Florida Law:

1. The communication must be willful and knowingly made.
2. The threat must be directed to or concerning a specific individual or group.
3. The language must be such that a reasonable person would take it as a serious expression of an intent to cause harm.
4. The context matters: tone, history, language, and circumstances surrounding the post all influence whether it’s considered a true threat.

Common Facebook Threat Defenses (That Often Fail)

People accused of making Facebook threats often use the same defenses:

• “It was just a joke.”
• “I was angry and didn’t mean it.”
• “It was metaphorical, not literal.”
• “It’s free speech!”

Unfortunately, these defenses usually don’t hold up when the totality of the circumstances supports that the statements were made in a threatening context. Courts will examine the specific wording, any accompanying images or videos, the relationship between the parties, and how the message was received by the victim.

For example, if someone posts:
“I swear I’m going to make you pay for what you did. Watch your back—you’ll see soon enough.”
—and follows that with, “I don’t play games. I mean that s**,”*—that post would likely be considered a true threat under Florida law.

The Role of Intent

Many people believe they’re safe from prosecution if they didn’t intend to carry out the threat. However, that’s a dangerous misunderstanding.

Under Florida law, the subjective intent to follow through on the threat is less important than whether the threat could be reasonably interpreted as serious by others. The courts care more about how the message is perceived than the internal mindset of the person who posted it.

In Jones, even though the defendant claimed emotional distress and lack of intent to harm, the court focused on the language and surrounding facts. The verdict was clear: posting threats online—even without weapons or a physical confrontation—can result in criminal charges.

Why Facebook and Other Platforms Are Especially Risky

Social media adds extra weight to threatening language because:

• Posts are often public or shared widely.
• Content is preserved, screenshot, or reported.
• Social media allows people to target individuals by name, tag them, or include identifying information.
• Algorithms can amplify angry or inflammatory content, making it more likely to be seen by many, including law enforcement.

It only takes one report for a post to be flagged and investigated. Once police or prosecutors get involved, deleting the post is too little, too late.

What Are the Penalties for a Facebook Threat?

Under Florida Statute § 836.10, making a written or electronic threat is a felony of the second degree, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and a permanent criminal record.

Under § 836.12(2)(a), threats involving mass shootings or terrorism are also felonies and carry severe penalties—even for first-time offenders.

In addition to prison, a conviction can lead to:

• Loss of professional licenses.
• Revocation of gun rights.
• Immigration consequences.
• Probation and mandatory mental health evaluation.
• Inability to seal or expunge the record.

What Should You Do If You’re Accused?

If law enforcement contacts you about a post, do not try to explain yourself or minimize what you said. Instead:

1. Do not speak to police without an attorney present.
2. Do not delete posts or attempt to erase evidence—this could be considered tampering.
3. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately.

Your defense may depend on context, intent, and the exact language used, and an experienced lawyer can help build a case to challenge the charges, negotiate with prosecutors, or even get the case dismissed.

How to Call a Lawyer

If you or someone you care about is under investigation or charged over a social media post, every moment counts. A single comment made in anger or frustration can lead to severe felony consequences. Don’t risk your future by assuming, “It was just a joke” or “No one will take it seriously.”

🚨 Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

I’m W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., a Florida Bar Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer with decades of experience representing clients in state and federal courts. I have a deep understanding of “true threat” laws, First Amendment protections, and the strategies prosecutors use in cases involving social media posts.

📞 Call today at (813) 222-2220 or
🔗 Visit my contact page to schedule a confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary Table: Florida Law on Social Media Threats

Final Thoughts

Social media or facebook threats may feel informal or impulsive—but legally, your words can carry serious legal consequences. Don’t let a Facebook post become a felony charge. If you’re under investigation or have been arrested for something you posted, get experienced legal help right away.

🔹 Contact the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. today
📍 https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/
📞 (813) 222-2220

When Lawful Assembly and Free Speech Meets Public Order

In a nation founded on the principles of free expression and the right to petition the government, the interplay between individual liberties and the need for public order is a constant legal frontier. This delicate balance often comes into sharp focus during public meetings, where citizens exercise their right to voice concerns and engage with elected officials. A recent decision from Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal, Rodney Keith Jones v. State of Florida, shines a critical light on these fundamental rights, particularly concerning charges of disturbing a lawful assembly and resisting arrest.

This significant appellate ruling, issued on July 18, 2025, reverses convictions for disturbing a lawful assembly and resisting an officer without violence, underscoring the high bar the state must meet when limiting speech in public forums. However, it also affirms a conviction for threatening a law enforcement officer, illustrating that while free speech is robust, it is not without its boundaries. For anyone navigating the complexities of criminal charges in Florida, understanding the nuances of such appellate decisions is paramount. At the Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary, Jr. , we are committed to upholding the rights of our clients and providing diligent, informed legal defense. My practice is dedicated to helping individuals understand their legal standing and ensuring their voices are heard within the justice system.

Do you have questions about your rights at public meetings, or are you facing criminal charges in Florida? Navigating the legal system can be daunting. Don’t face it alone. The experienced team at Central Law is here to provide the legal guidance and representation you need. Visit our website today at centrallaw.com or call us directly at 813-222-2220 for a confidential consultation.

The Events Unfold: A Day at the Bradenton City Council

The case of Rodney Keith Jones began, as many do, with a seemingly ordinary public interaction that spiraled into legal trouble. The events in question took place during a Bradenton City Council meeting. Mr. Jones, like other citizens, had been allowed to speak for his allotted time during the public comment portion of the meeting. However, after the council moved to the consent agenda—a section of the meeting where public comments are typically not permitted—Mr. Jones attempted to interject.

The court record details that a member of the audience replied to a councilmember, prompting the mayor to announce that no further comments from the audience would be allowed. Despite this, Mr. Jones raised his hand and asked, “can I ask you a question, please.” The mayor responded, “Please, you’re out of order Mr. Jones.” Mr. Jones retorted, “No, you’re out of order because I asked for help and I’m not getting it.”

At this point, the mayor suggested Mr. Jones speak with Police Chief Melanie Bevan at the back of the room. Mr. Jones stood, turned towards the back, but then sat back down. Captain Phillip Waller and another officer approached him. Captain Waller sat behind Mr. Jones, and the two engaged in a quiet conversation for approximately three minutes, which could not be heard on the meeting’s video recording.

Captain Waller later testified that he was trying to “de-escalate” the situation. He noted Mr. Jones became angrier as the conversation progressed and stated that Mr. Jones refused to leave or comply with the rules, explicitly saying he “would not be quiet.” Based on this, Captain Waller decided to arrest Mr. Jones, aiming to avoid a scene in the meeting. When Mr. Jones did not stand to leave, officers attempted to pick him up, eventually putting him on the floor and carrying him out.

Crucially, Captain Waller admitted under cross-examination that during their quiet conversation, Mr. Jones, though angry, was neither disrespectful nor loud. He also stated his belief that he had probable cause to arrest Mr. Jones for disturbing a lawful assembly based solely on Mr. Jones’s brief exchange with the mayor—an exchange that lasted less than ten seconds. Waller acknowledged that others had spoken for longer periods without being arrested and justified the arrest by stating he “didn’t want to just sit back and wait for it to happen again.”

The meeting’s video further revealed that after Captain Waller and Chief Bevan spoke with Mr. Jones, the mayor called a recess. When the video resumed, officers were actively trying to remove a seated Mr. Jones. Bill Sanders, a former Bradenton City Council member sitting two rows behind Mr. Jones, testified that Mr. Jones was not raising his voice or creating a disturbance. He also stated that police had targeted Mr. Jones in the past for speaking out and that no one else had ever been arrested at a council meeting. According to Sanders, the disruption that led to the recess was caused by the officers, who were being loud during the arrest.

Following the meeting, police monitored Mr. Jones’s Facebook page, where he posted videos. In one such video, Mr. Jones made graphic statements about physically harming Chief Bevan, stating, “I mean that shit.” This online statement became the basis for the third charge: threatening a law enforcement officer.

Case Summary: The Charges and Lawful Assembly Outcomes for Rodney Keith Jones

To better understand the appellate court’s decision, here is a breakdown of the charges Mr. Jones faced and how the convictions were handled at both the trial and appellate levels:

Disturbing Lawful Assembly: A Deep Dive into First Amendment Rights

The first and arguably most critical aspect of the appeal concerned Mr. Jones’s conviction for disturbing a lawful assembly, charged under Section 871.01(1)(a), Florida Statutes (2023). This statute makes it unlawful to “willfully and maliciously interrupt or disturb any assembly of people who have met for any lawful purpose.” Mr. Jones argued that any disturbance was not substantial, he lacked intent to disrupt, and the officers, in fact, caused the disruption. The appellate court agreed with Mr. Jones, reversing this conviction.

At the heart of this analysis lies the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which broadly protects freedom of speech and the right “to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Amend. I, U.S. Const. The Florida Constitution offers similar protection, stating, “No law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech.” Art. I, § 4, Fla. Const. These protections are not absolute, particularly in specific settings. The U.S. Supreme Court has recognized that the government is not required to grant unrestricted access to all who wish to speak, especially when it might lead to “disruption that might be caused by the speaker’s activities.” Cornelius v. NAACP Legal Def. & Educ. Fund, Inc., 473 U.S. 788, 799-800 (1985). However, this does not grant a license to evade the First Amendment, which requires a “close look” when speech is restricted. McDonough v. Garcia, 116 F.4th 1319, 1322 (11th Cir. 2024).

City council meetings are generally classified as “limited public forums.” McDonough, 116 F.4th at 1328. In such forums, government restrictions on speech must not discriminate based on viewpoint and “must be reasonable in light of the purpose served by the forum.” Id. at 1329 (quoting Good News Club v. Milford Cent. Sch., 533 U.S. 98, 106-07 (2001)). In Mr. Jones’s case, the court found that the Bradenton City Council’s policy of prohibiting public comment during the consent agenda was reasonable and did not offend his First Amendment rights, as it was designed to allow the council to conduct city business efficiently.

However, the question then became whether Mr. Jones’s specific actions violated the disturbing a lawful assembly statute. The Florida Supreme Court, in S.H.B. v. State, 355 So. 2d 1176, 1178 (Fla. 1977), established clear elements for this offense:

1. Deliberate Action: The person must have deliberately acted to create a disturbance, intending for their behavior to impede the assembly’s functioning, or with reckless disregard for its effect.
2. Reasonable Expectation of Disruption: The acts complained of must be such that a reasonable person would expect them to be disruptive.
3. Significant Disturbance: The acts must, in fact, significantly disturb the assembly.

The S.H.B. court emphasized that these elements prevent “an innocent party genuinely exercising his civil rights from being penalized.” Id. The Second District Court of Appeal meticulously applied these standards to Mr. Jones’s case.

The court found that Mr. Jones’s initial statements—”can I ask you a question, please” and “No, you’re out of order because I asked for help and I’m not getting it”—were brief and did not significantly disturb the assembly.⁵ Indeed, the City Council proceeded with the consent agenda afterward. The court compared Mr. Jones’s actions to those in Weidner v. State, 380 So. 2d 1286, 1287 (Fla. 1980), where the Florida Supreme Court granted a judgment of acquittal to a defendant who stepped forward with a tape recorder, asked a councilman to repeat a comment, and pushed some chairs. Mr. Jones’s brief comments were significantly less disruptive.

Crucially, the court noted that the interaction between Mr. Jones and the officers was quiet; Mr. Sanders testified they were whispering, and their conversation was inaudible on the meeting video. The meeting continued uninterrupted during this discussion. Captain Waller’s testimony, acknowledging he decided to arrest Mr. Jones based on speculation about what Mr. Jones “might later do or say to disrupt the meeting,” proved critical. The court concluded that the actual interruption to the meeting occurred when Chief Bevan and Captain Waller spoke to Mr. Jones, and subsequently, when officers physically removed him from the room.

The appellate court held that “absent evidence that Mr. Jones deliberately acted to significantly disturb the meeting, the officers’ arrest of Mr. Jones for disturbing a lawful assembly lacked probable cause.” K.W. v. State, 328 So. 3d 1022, 1025 (Fla. 2d DCA 2021), clarifies that law enforcement must have probable cause that a crime has been or is being committed before making an arrest. The mere “speculation that Mr. Jones might speak out-of-order or become argumentative if he were not removed from the meeting did not provide probable cause for his arrest.” Therefore, the conviction for disturbing a lawful assembly was reversed due to a lack of competent substantial evidence.

Resisting an Officer Without Violence: The Ripple Effect

The reversal of the disturbing a lawful assembly conviction had a direct and immediate impact on Mr. Jones’s second charge: resisting an officer without violence. Section 843.02, Florida Statutes (2023), defines this misdemeanor as resisting, obstructing, or opposing an officer “in the execution of legal process or in the lawful execution of any legal duty, without offering or doing violence to the person of the officer.”

A cornerstone of Florida law regarding resisting arrest is the principle that if the officer is not acting in the “lawful execution of any legal duty”—meaning the underlying arrest or detention lacks probable cause or legal authority—then your nonviolent effort to oppose or avoid that detention is generally not unlawful under Section 843.02, Florida Statutes (2023). As the Second District Court of Appeal has held, “the legality of the arrest is an element of the offense of resisting arrest without violence.” State v. Espinosa, 686 So. 2d 1345, 1347 (Fla. 1996); see also Dydek v. State, 349 So. 3d 521, 528 (Fla. 2d DCA 2022).

Given the appellate court’s determination that the officers lacked probable cause to arrest Mr. Jones for disturbing a lawful assembly, it logically followed that his subsequent resistance, even if nonviolent, could not form the basis of a lawful charge. Because the underlying arrest for disturbing a lawful assembly was improper, the officers were not acting in the lawful execution of a legal duty when they attempted to remove Mr. Jones. Consequently, his conviction for resisting an officer without violence was also reversed.

Facing criminal charges or believe your rights have been violated? The legal system can be complex and intimidating, especially when dealing with charges that involve First Amendment issues. Don’t go through this alone. Reach out today. We offer experienced representation and a commitment to protecting your future. Call us at 813-222-2220 or visit centrallaw.com/contact-us/ to schedule your consultation. Your rights deserve a strong defense.

Threatening a Law Enforcement Officer: Where Speech Crosses the Line

While the Rodney Keith Jones decision offered a victory for First Amendment principles in the context of public assembly, it also delivered a stern reminder that the protection of free speech is not absolute. The appellate court affirmed Mr. Jones’s conviction for threatening a law enforcement officer, Chief Bevan.

This charge fell under Section 836.12(2)(a), Florida Statutes (2023), which prohibits willfully and knowingly threatening a law enforcement officer with death or serious bodily harm. Mr. Jones had argued that his comments on his Facebook videos were not “actual threats” but rather “hyperbole” or metaphorical speech.

The challenge for courts in these situations is to distinguish between constitutionally protected, albeit sometimes crude or offensive, speech and a “true threat” that can be lawfully prohibited. Courts must examine the “totality of the circumstances” to make this determination. Smith v. State, 532 So. 2d 50, 53 (Fla. 2d DCA 1988). A “true threat” communicates a serious expression of an intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals. It is not political hyperbole, idle talk, or jest.

In Mr. Jones’s case, the State presented evidence of his Facebook video comments, which graphically described how he intended to physically harm Chief Bevan, followed by his statement, “I mean that shit.” The appellate court, viewing this evidence in the light most favorable to the State—as is required when reviewing a denial of a motion for judgment of acquittal—concluded that the trial court did not err in denying Mr. Jones’s motion for judgment of acquittal on this charge. The court found that these comments, despite Mr. Jones’s assertion of metaphor, constituted “willful and knowing threats to a law enforcement officer.”

This portion of the ruling highlights a critical boundary of free speech. While citizens are robustly protected in their right to criticize public officials and engage in heated debate, this protection does not extend to credible threats of violence. When speech crosses the line into explicit and intentional threats of harm, it loses its constitutional shield and can lead to criminal liability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Free Speech and Public Meetings

Understanding your rights and obligations in public forums can be complex. Here are answers to some common questions based on the principles highlighted in the Rodney Keith Jones case:

The Significance of Rodney Keith Jones: Protecting Rights and Upholding Justice

The Rodney Keith Jones v. State of Florida decision is a vital reminder of the delicate balance between individual liberties and governmental authority. For citizens, it reinforces the robust protection of their First Amendment rights, particularly in the context of public forums like city council meetings. It clarifies that a minor, brief disruption, or even a perceived potential for future disruption, is insufficient grounds for arrest for disturbing a lawful assembly. It underscores that the cause of the disturbance matters, and officers’ actions can themselves create the very disturbance they seek to prevent.

For law enforcement, the ruling serves as a crucial clarification on the standards for probable cause, particularly concerning charges that touch upon free speech. It reiterates that arrests must be based on actual, observable criminal conduct that meets the statutory definition, not on speculation or a desire to prevent future, unproven actions. When an arrest lacks probable cause, any subsequent charges of resisting without violence are likely to fail, impacting how officers approach situations involving citizen interactions at public gatherings.

Finally, the affirmation of the threatening a law enforcement officer conviction reinforces that while free speech is a cornerstone of American democracy, it is not limitless. Credible threats of violence, regardless of their medium, cross a line that the First Amendment does not protect. This distinction is vital for maintaining public safety while preserving the core values of open dialogue and government accountability.

Protecting Your Rights Starts Here

Understanding these legal precedents is crucial for every Floridian. The Rodney Keith Jones case demonstrates that even in seemingly straightforward interactions, complex constitutional issues can arise, potentially leading to charges that may not withstand appellate scrutiny. If you find yourself facing criminal charges, particularly those involving public conduct, free speech, or interactions with law enforcement, it is imperative to have knowledgeable and experienced legal representation on your side.

At CentralLaw, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive a fair defense. We understand the intricacies of Florida law and are prepared to advocate vigorously on your behalf. Don’t navigate the legal system alone.

Visit us at centrallaw.com to learn more about our services and how we can assist you. You can learn more about my background and approach to law on my bio page: https://www.centrallaw.com/lawyers/w-f-casey-ebsary-jr/. For direct inquiries or to schedule a confidential consultation, please reach out through our contact page: https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/ or call us directly at 813-222-2220. Your rights are worth fighting for.

Florida Court Ruling Clarifies Clash Between Eviction Law and Domestic Violence Injunctions

Overview

In June 2025, the Florida Sixth District Court of Appeal reversed a county court ruling that had improperly evicted a domestic violence injunction holder from a shared residence. The core legal issue: Can a landlord evict someone when a circuit court has already granted that person exclusive possession of the home under a temporary domestic violence injunction?

The appellate court ruled that the county court lacked the jurisdiction to issue a conflicting eviction order. This decision strengthens the legal shield provided by domestic violence injunctions and clarifies how courts must navigate overlapping jurisdiction.

📞 Call Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. now at (813) 222-2220 or reach out at https://www.centrallaw.com/contact-us/ if you’re facing conflicting court orders or eviction threats.

Key Domestic Violence Injunction Case Summary

Background: The Legal Collision

The individuals involved had previously lived together in a home owned by one of them. A domestic violence injunction was issued by the circuit court, granting temporary exclusive possession of the shared dwelling to the petitioner. Meanwhile, the property owner attempted to terminate a verbal month-to-month rental agreement and sought eviction through county court.

The county court granted possession to the property owner despite the active injunction. The petitioner appealed—and won. The Sixth District Court of Appeal ruled that the county court could not override or modify an injunction issued by the circuit court.

Table: Domestic Violence Injunction Laws in Conflict

🔎 Frequently Asked Legal Questions

Key Point in Domestic Violence Injunction Cases

Orders issued without proper jurisdiction are reversible on appeal. In this case, the appellate court reversed the eviction judgment and emphasized respect for statutory boundaries.

Timeline of Legal Events in Domestic Violence Injunction Cases

Legal Precedent and Statutory Interpretation

The appellate court emphasized that section 741.30 is a specialized statutory framework designed to protect victims of domestic violence. Possession awarded under this statute is not subject to review or override by a county court under landlord-tenant eviction statutes like § 83.59.

Furthermore, Florida law allows the Legislature to vest exclusive jurisdiction in particular courts based on subject matter. In this case, exclusive jurisdiction over injunctions belongs to the circuit court. See:

• § 741.30(1)(a) – Circuit court authority to grant injunctions
• § 741.30(5)(a)2 – Exclusive possession under temporary injunction
• § 741.30(6)(a)2 – Continued relief after hearing
• § 741.30(10) – Motion to modify or dissolve available to both parties

📘 For a full breakdown of jurisdiction statutes, view:

• Florida Statute § 83.59 on Justia
• Florida Statute § 741.30 on Justia

Table: Who Has Jurisdiction?

Legal Conflicts Between Courts In an Injunction? Know Your Rights.

If you’re facing a legal order from one court and another court’s ruling seems to contradict it, you could be at serious risk of an invalid judgment or enforcement action.

Let us guide you through the tangle of overlapping legal jurisdictions. At the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., we resolve complex civil litigation, injunctions, and landlord-tenant disputes with precision and experience.

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📨 Request a consultation

Lessons for Landlords and Tenants

Whether you’re a landlord managing difficult situations or a tenant seeking protection, here’s what this case teaches:

• Always verify existing court orders before filing eviction actions.
• Jurisdiction matters—an otherwise valid legal action may be thrown out if filed in the wrong court.
• Seek legal counsel before initiating or responding to legal action that involves overlapping statutes.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Court Power in Florida

Florida’s layered court system divides power for good reason. County courts are designed for streamlined landlord-tenant matters, while circuit courts handle more serious and specialized issues like domestic violence protection. This appellate decision reaffirms that temporary injunctions take precedence over routine evictions when they affect the same residence.

If your rights were ignored or your safety compromised by improper court actions, take control by hiring an attorney who understands how to navigate these legal boundaries effectively.

Source Links & Legal Authority

• Florida Statute § 83.59 – Evictions
• Florida Statute § 741.30 – Injunctions
• Florida Statute § 34.011 – County Court Jurisdiction
• Florida Statute § 26.012 – Circuit Court Jurisdiction

Written by W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., Criminal Defense Attorney
Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer – Former Prosecutor

📍 Serving Hillsborough County and the Greater Tampa Bay Area
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🔗 About the Author | ✉️ Contact Us

Introduction: How To Anger a Prosecutor

It only takes a minute. Prosecutors aren’t just lawyers—they’re gatekeepers to the justice system with immense power over plea deals, sentencing, and trial strategy. When they’re angry, defendants pay the price. Whether you’re facing fraud, battery, theft, or drug charges, knowing what frustrates prosecutors helps you avoid the harshest consequences. Let’s explore the top three things that anger prosecutors and how we protect our clients from their wrath.

Take Action Now – Don’t Face the Prosecutor Alone

If you’re dealing with criminal charges, the prosecution already has a head start. At the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., we use decades of courtroom experience to anticipate prosecutorial strategies and fight back with precision. Whether you’re facing serious charges, new allegations, or simply missed a court date, we can help. Learn more about our approach and board-certified criminal trial attorney Casey Ebsary here. Ready to discuss your case confidentially? Use our secure contact form or call us directly at (813) 222-2220. Your future may depend on taking action now—so don’t wait until the State decides your fate for you.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

⚖️ Prosecutorial Triggers vs. Defense Strategy Table

📞 Contact Central Law Today for a Strategic Defense

If you’re up against an angry prosecutor, you need an attorney who understands how to de-escalate, defend, and deliver results. We fight for your rights with strategic insight and courtroom skill.
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