There is no question that social media has a significant influence on the lives of millions of Americans, including Wisconsin residents. In fact, a study performed by the Pew Research Project found that as of January 2014, 89 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 years old use social networking sites on a regular basis. Young people can update their status and share pictures with a captive audience from around the world. Law enforcement agencies across the country have found that searching a suspect’s Facebook page may yield crucial information, which may be used in a juvenile crime court case.
In Virginia, it is illegal for a convicted felon to possess ammunition and firearms. However, one Virginia teenager posted an image of himself on Facebook that resulted in law enforcement officers knocking on his door. The picture showed the young, 19-year-old boy holding a 30-round magazine in each hand. One of the magazines clearly contains a bullet.
The CHARGE Gang Task Force searched the teenager’s home, and officers arrested him on charges of felony obstruction of justice, as well as felony possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He will appear in court in late-August.
With so many people able to gain access into the lifestyles of others through social media, it is crucial that people are cautious as to what they post on their profiles. People who are facing juvenile criminal charges may want to contact a criminal defense attorney. They may be able to lend essential legal counsel to those who need a solid defense.
Source: WHSV, “Teenager Arrested After Posting Picture on Facebook,” Pete DeLea, Aug. 14, 2014.