Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Re: Sex Crimes against Children

Depending on the degree of the felony would depend the length of the statute of limitations. 1st degree felony = anytime if reported within 72 hours, otherwise 4 years. 2nd Degree felony = anytime if reported within 72 hours, otherwise 3 years. 3rd degree felony = 3 years. If you have already been arrested then your speedy trial rights come into play. You must be tried within 175 days of the arrest unless speedy trial has been waived. I do not know all the policies of DCF or the reporting policies prior to conviction. You have a presumption of innocence that must be observed. However, criminal records become public records once the investigation formally ends. Court records are always public records unless ordered sealed by the court.