In the wake of Hurricane Irma, the State Attorney’s Office 20th Judicial Circuit has created a Hurricane Response Team. The prosecutors and staff who focus on economic crimes will be putting their efforts into cases coming into our office dealing with price gouging and contracting without a license during a state of emergency which is a felony. Additionally our prosecutors will seek enhanced sentences for those who are found to be looting involving the hurricane. This process will be overseen by Chief Assistant State Attorney Amira Fox.
“Much of Southwest Florida has been impacted by this devastating hurricane. Our office will not allow people to be taken advantage of, especially not in the face of a disaster. Our experienced prosecutors will review these cases as they come in and make sure those who prey on people at their most vulnerable times are held accountable. We urge all citizens of Southwest Florida to be diligent and make sure they hire individuals who are properly licensed and insured.” said Chief Assistant Fox.
Our Hurricane Response Team will be working with all of our partners in law enforcement throughout Southwest Florida as we work as a collective group to combat these individuals.
Samantha Syoen
Communications Director
State Attorney’s Office
239-533-1125
ssyoen@sao20.org