Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

My old friends and I were targeted in an FDLE anti-gang initiative in 2006 in Okaloosa County Florida. Many of my old friends were arrested in connection to this and forced to work as informants mostly in 2009. I was never arrested.

I have been told by two separate people I am under investigation.

My friends have been arrested.

I found public records naming the investigation so it isn't secret.

I am treated poorly everywhere because of this. Called pedophile, drug dealer, etc.. by people I don't even know.

Overt surveillance and harassment has been constant since 2006 and isn't letting up.

I sent FOIA requests last year for records about me in relation to the investigation to numerous agencies and none responded.

I just sent new requests last week again. If they do not respond how can I compel them to release these records? I cannot afford an attorney.

Also, how long can they legally keep an investigation open for without charging? Surely they cannot just harass you the rest of your life. Can they?


Asked on 1/28/14, 2:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

The government can keep records sealed while a case is under investigation, which can extend into years. The statute of limitations for most federal felonies is 5 years and 4 years on most state drug trafficking charges. Because you may be at risk of arrest, you need to discuss this with an attorney to see if getting FOIA requests is even wise. Further, they can advise you about what is the best way to proceed.

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Answered on 1/28/14, 5:34 pm


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