Skip to Content

Criminal Defense Attorneys in Tampa Bay

Johnson Pope’s Criminal Defense Practice, led by former federal prosecutor Todd Foster, provides strategic, discreet representation for individuals facing serious criminal charges in Tampa and throughout Florida. We defend clients in matters ranging from white-collar crimes and federal investigations to complex state criminal charges. Our team understands that criminal allegations can jeopardize reputations, careers, and personal freedom, especially for executives, business owners, and professionals. With decades of federal experience, we deliver the high-level advocacy and insight needed to protect your future when it matters most. 

Our Criminal Defense Services

We represent clients in a wide range of Criminal Defense matters, including: 

White Collar Offenses 

  • Bribery (Including FCPA matters) 
  • Conspiracy 
  • Credit Card Fraud 
  • Cyber Crimes 
  • Environmental Crimes 
  • Mail and Wire Fraud 
  • Forfeiture (Civil or Criminal) 
  • RICO (Civil or Criminal, Including RICO Conspiracy) 
  • Trafficking of Counterfeit Goods 
  • Public Corruption 
  • Qui Tam Litigation/Whistleblower Actions 

Fraud 

  • Bank Fraud 
  • Credit Card Fraud 
  • Healthcare Fraud 
  • Identity Fraud 
  • Insurance Fraud/Cyber Crimes 
  • Internet Fraud 
  • Mail and Wire Fraud 
  • Medicaid and Medicare Fraud 
  • Mortgage Fraud 
  • Ponzi Schemes 
  • Procurement Fraud 
  • Tax Fraud 

Financial/Securities Offenses 

  • Dodd-Frank Act 
  • Embezzlement 
  • Money Laundering 
  • Sarbanes-Oxley Act 
  • Securities Fraud/Financial Crimes 

Drug Offenses 

  • Drug Conspiracy 
  • Synthetic Drugs 
  • Possession and Distribution 
  • Importation 
  • Reverse Sting Cases 
  • Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) 
  • Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) 

Other Offenses 

  • Burglary and Theft 
  • Dealing in Stolen Property 
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI) 

Who We Represent

Our criminal defense practice is focused on representing high-net-worth individuals facing serious legal challenges. We routinely counsel business owners, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and other professionals whose reputations, livelihoods, and futures are on the line. These are clients who require more than just legal representation—they need strategic, discreet, and results-driven advocacy from an attorney who understands the complexities of high-stakes situations. Whether facing white-collar investigations, DUI charges, or other criminal allegations, our clients trust us to protect what matters most. 

Our Approach

At Johnson Pope, we take a proactive, strategic, and client-centered approach to every case. Our team is known for early intervention, often before charges are filed, to protect our clients’ reputations and minimize legal exposure. We are thorough in our preparation, aggressive in our advocacy, and discreet in our handling of sensitive matters. Our clients benefit from decades of experience in federal and state courts, as well as a deep understanding of how prosecutors think, allowing us to craft strong defenses and achieve favorable outcomes. At every stage, we focus on protecting our clients’ personal and professional interests with the highest level of integrity, skill, and discretion. 

Meet the Team

Name
Phone Number
Office Location
vCard
Name
Seth Bell
Seth Bell

Seth Bell

Investigator, Tampa Phone Number: (813)-492-5021
Phone Number
(813)-492-5021
Office Location
Tampa
Download vCard
Name
Kevin J. Darken
Kevin J. Darken

Kevin J. Darken

Partner, Tampa Phone Number: (813)-489-9328
Phone Number
(813)-489-9328
Office Location
Tampa
Download vCard
Name
Todd Foster
Todd Foster

Todd Foster

Partner, Tampa Phone Number: (813)-419-1350
Phone Number
(813)-419-1350
Office Location
Tampa
Download vCard
Name
Melissa Kwitko
Melissa Kwitko

Melissa Kwitko

Associate, Tampa Phone Number: (813)-489-9540
Phone Number
(813)-489-9540
Office Location
Tampa
Download vCard
Name
Rachel Wise
Rachel Wise

Rachel Wise

Associate, Tampa Phone Number: 813-225-2500 ext. 2830
Phone Number
813-225-2500 ext. 2830
Office Location
Tampa
Download vCard

Related Blogs

Johnson Pope is pleased to announce the integration of the highly respected Todd Foster Law Group, a leading criminal defense boutique firm, into its practice. This strategic addition significantly expands Johnson Pope’s capabilities in criminal defense, offering clients unparalleled expertise in both state and federal cases.  The Todd Foster Law […]

Categories: Blogs, Criminal Law, Firm News

View More Results