Orlando Shooting or Throwing a Deadly Missile Lawyer

YOUR FUTURE IS ALL THAT MATTERS

VIEW OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL | Hanlon Law

Shooting or Throwing a Deadly Missile Attorney in Orlando, Florida

Some criminal statutes in Florida have titles that suggest extremely serious or dramatic conduct. However, the actual legal definitions of those offenses can be broader than many people realize. One example is the crime commonly known as shooting or throwing a deadly missile. While the name may bring to mind violent acts such as drive-by shootings, the law can apply to a wide range of situations involving objects thrown or fired at buildings or vehicles.

Because this offense is classified as a serious felony, anyone accused of violating the law should seek experienced legal representation immediately. At Hanlon Law, Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon defends individuals throughout Central Florida who are facing complex and serious criminal charges.

Florida Law on Shooting or Throwing a Deadly Missile

The offense is governed by Florida Statute 790.19. The statute makes it illegal to wantonly or maliciously shoot at, throw, or project certain objects into or at buildings, vehicles, or other structures.

The law applies to a wide range of locations and objects, including:

Homes or dwellings
Public or private buildings
Aircraft or vessels
Buses, trains, or other transportation vehicles
Automobiles and other vehicles

Importantly, the statute does not always require that a building be occupied at the time of the alleged offense. In many cases, the prosecution only needs to prove that the defendant intentionally projected an object toward the structure.

What Is Considered a “Deadly Missile” in Orlando, Florida?

Despite the dramatic wording of the statute, the legal definition of a “deadly missile” is broader than many people expect. Under Florida law, a missile may include any object capable of causing death or serious bodily injury when thrown or projected.

Because of this broad definition, courts have interpreted a variety of objects as potential deadly missiles depending on the circumstances. Examples cited in past cases have included:

Stones or rocks
Bottles or glass objects
BBs or pellets fired from air-powered guns
Other hard objects capable of causing injury

The wide interpretation of this term means that individuals may face serious charges even when the object involved does not resemble what most people would typically think of as a weapon.

Key Elements of the Offense in Orlando, Florida

To obtain a conviction for shooting or throwing a deadly missile, prosecutors must generally prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt.

First, the state must show that the defendant wantonly or maliciously shot, threw, or projected an object. This means the act must have been done intentionally or with reckless disregard for the consequences.

Second, the prosecution must demonstrate that the object was directed toward a structure, vehicle, or other protected location described in the statute.

When the alleged target is a vehicle, the state may also need to establish that the vehicle was occupied by another person at the time of the incident.

Because these elements involve specific factual and legal questions, the circumstances surrounding the incident can play a critical role in the outcome of the case.

Penalties for Shooting or Throwing a Deadly Missile in Orlando, Florida

This offense is typically classified as a second-degree felony under Florida law. If convicted, a defendant may face significant penalties, including:

Up to 15 years in prison
Up to 15 years of probation
Substantial fines and court costs
A permanent felony record

A felony conviction can also affect many aspects of a person’s life, including employment opportunities, housing eligibility, and certain constitutional rights.

Defending Against Deadly Missile Charges in Orlando, Florida

Cases involving alleged deadly missiles often involve complex factual disputes. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence and identify potential defenses based on the circumstances.

Possible defense strategies may include:

Challenging whether the object involved legally qualifies as a deadly missile
Disputing whether the act was intentional or malicious
Questioning whether the alleged target meets the requirements of the statute
Identifying weaknesses in witness testimony or investigative procedures

Because the statute is broad and subject to interpretation, careful legal analysis is essential when defending against these charges.

Contact an Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney

Being charged with shooting or throwing a deadly missile is a serious matter that can carry severe felony penalties. If you or a loved one has been arrested or investigated for this offense, it is critical to obtain legal representation right away.

At Hanlon Law, we provide strategic and aggressive defense for individuals facing serious criminal charges in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the most favorable outcome possible.

If you have been accused of shooting or throwing a deadly missile in Orlando, call Hanlon Law at (407) 987-3836 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.