Social media is everywhere these days. For many people, sharing what we do online is second nature. We share what we eat, our new diets, our dates, our kids, our jobs, and our parties. But sometimes, we can share too much, forgetting how many people are watching and how much of what we share can become public. Even if you keep your accounts private, your friends and family can see, record, and share publicly what you may post privately. As four Pennsylvania men recently discovered, sharing too much on social media can lead to serious consequences and criminal charges for illegal activity.

Social Media SNAFU

While investigating the death of an 18-year-old woman in York on December 31, 2022, police found video clips online that led to firearms and drug charges for four Pennsylvania men. According to the York City Police Department, the video clips showed the “reckless shooting of firearms in public spaces, an act that is unacceptable in this community.” After finding the video evidence, police used it to obtain four search warrants. As a result, police arrested three adults and one juvenile and seized:

• 2.5 pounds of marijuana,
• 10 grams of cocaine,
• 19 grams of heroin,
• 59 grams of crack cocaine,
• Three firearms, including a stolen firearm and one with an illegal device that converted it into an automatic weapon.

A statement from the police department said, “These law enforcement actions should serve as a reminder to those involved in gun violence that this behavior will not be tolerated. Furthermore, the use of social media to boast about these violent actions is not only grotesque, but also shameful.” The police didn't reveal whether any of the four people arrested were involved in the homicide police were originally investigating.

How Can an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me?

If you're facing criminal charges related to social media posts or videos posted publicly, it can be a serious matter. Whether the police can use online posts as evidence against you in a criminal court is also complex. The admissibility of evidence can vary depending on the post, who posted it, what it shows, and more. If you're facing drug charges, firearms violations, DUI, domestic violence charges, federal crimes, traffic violations, internet crimes, violent crimes, or other criminal charges, you need the advice of a skilled Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You shouldn't try to handle the criminal justice system alone and never agree to a plea bargain until you've spoken with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Our skilled Criminal Law Team at the LLF Law Firm has been handling criminal defense for Pennsylvanians for years. We've seen it all, including defendants charged after social media posts. We can examine your case, the charges, and the evidence against you and discuss your options. We can also negotiate with prosecutors and help get the best possible resolution in your case. Find out how they can help you too. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or contact us online to schedule your consultation.