A man with a criminal record has been charged with arson in connection with a recent fire at a Fort Pierce mosque. The preponderance of evidence against the defendant and the nature of the offense may increase the possibility of both a conviction and a lengthy prison term. In order to overcome these charges, he will require the services of a Fort Pierce criminal lawyer. This type of service is available from the Law Office of Jeffrey H. Garland.

The suspect was taken into custody only three days after the blaze at the Fort Pierce Islamic Center. According to a spokesman for the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s County Office, the arrest was accomplished in an “uneventful” manner and was made possible with the help of a tip from the community.

Law enforcement personnel who were carrying out a search warrant at the suspect’s home reportedly found evidence that was linked to the fire. They also found on his Facebook page writings critical of the Islamic faith. These written comments included a statement that “America should consider all forms of Islam as radical.” In addition to this evidence, a surveillance videotape showed the suspect riding a motorcycle that is similar to one known to be owned by the suspect.

Considered a habitual offender, the suspect could face the additional charge of carrying out a hate crime, which would increase the penalty to as long as 30 years in prison. If the case goes to trial, the prosecution will be conducted on the basis of evidence that was collected in the course of the investigation. However, it may also be conducted on the basis of assumptions by the prosecutor and the police investigators handling the case. These assumptions may not be correct, and could lead to the conviction of an innocent person.

Jeffrey H. Garland is a Fort Pierce criminal lawyer who has more than three decades of experience in defending those charged with a wide variety of offenses. His understanding of the law and the workings of the legal system will allow him to provide the best possible advice throughout the legal process. Additionally, his scientific training will enable him to challenge available evidence, perhaps even preventing it from being admitted into the court proceedings.

Those charged with crimes are entitled to proper legal representation. This is why those so charged should consider seeking assistance from the Law Office of Jeffrey H. Garland.