TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Following the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has issued guidance to local law enforcement regarding enhanced penalties for looting and other crimes during a declared state of emergency. This announcement aims to deter criminal activities in storm-affected areas.
Attorney General Moody emphasized Florida's commitment to maintaining order: “Florida is a law-and-order state, and even though we have been damaged by Milton, we will not allow looting to take root here. I am offering guidance to Florida sheriffs and police chiefs about enhanced penalties for crimes committed during a state of emergency.”
In the context of a declared state of emergency in Florida, crimes such as burglary, theft, and unlicensed contracting face stricter legal consequences. Those committing dangerous offenses may not be eligible for nonmonetary pretrial release until they appear before a judge.
A letter detailing this guidance was sent by Attorney General Moody to sheriffs and police chiefs in affected regions. Residents are encouraged to report any criminal activity to their local law enforcement agencies.
In addition to addressing potential looting, Attorney General Moody has issued a Consumer Alert concerning price gouging and disaster-related scams following Hurricane Milton. The Price Gouging Hotline remains active for consumers to report significant price hikes on essential items needed post-storm. The Attorney General’s Rapid Response Team is actively responding to these reports.
Suspected instances of price gouging can be reported through various channels including the No Scam app, MyFloridaLegal.com, or by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM. The No Scam app is available for free download on both Apple and Android devices.
For more information on avoiding scams after natural disasters, resources are available through Attorney General Moody’s Scams at a Glance: After the Storm guide.