A North Florida judge has issued a restraining order against U.S. Representative Cory Mills, following testimony from his former girlfriend, Lindsay Langston, Miss United States 2024 and a Republican state committee woman, who alleged that Mills threatened to release sexually explicit videos of her.

Circuit Judge Fred Koberlein found that the evidence supported Langston’s claim that she suffered “substantial emotional distress” and was in “imminent danger of becoming the victim of another act of dating violence.” The injunction, entered in Lake City Circuit Court, prohibits Mills from contacting Langston or referencing her on social media and will remain in effect until January 2026.

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Understanding the Court’s Findings

Judge Koberlein wrote that Mills offered “no credible rebuttal” to Langston’s testimony and rejected his explanation that the videos in question were merely clips of her baking.

“The court, considering the totality of the testimony and the circumstances, does not find [Mills’] testimony concerning the intimate videos to be truthful,” the order stated.

Even if Mills no longer had possession of the intimate videos, the court found that Langston had reasonable cause to fear further harassment or harm, which under Florida law is sufficient to grant an injunction for protection against dating violence.

The case, while high-profile because of Mills’ political status, underscores a key principle of Florida domestic violence law: anyone, regardless of profession or position, can be subject to an injunction if the court believes a petitioner is in danger of becoming a victim of violence or harassment.

What Must Be Proven in a Florida Dating Violence Injunction

Under Florida Statute § 741.30, a person who is the victim of domestic violence or has reasonable cause to believe they are in imminent danger of becoming a victim may seek a restraining order (also called an injunction for protection).

When the parties are in a dating relationship, the proceeding falls under the subcategory of a Dating Violence Injunction.

To grant an injunction under § 741.30, Florida Statutes, the petitioner must show:

  1. A qualifying relationship – The parties must have had a continuing and significant relationship of a romantic or intimate nature within the past six months.

  2. Acts or threats of violence – The petitioner must demonstrate that domestic or dating violence occurred, or that there is reasonable cause to believe future violence is imminent.

  3. Emotional distress or fear – Courts may consider threatening messages, attempts at control, harassment, stalking, or intimidation — including threats to release private images.

In Mills’ case, the judge specifically cited “substantial emotional distress” and a reasonable belief of imminent danger, both key statutory elements for granting the injunction.

woman in emotional distress in need of dating violence injection in Florida

Why These Cases Are So Complex

Injunctions involving alleged threats, intimate videos, or online communications often hinge on the interpretation of text messages, social media posts, or verbal exchanges, which can easily be misinterpreted or taken out of context.

For example, Mills reportedly told Langston that a future boyfriend would need to “strap up cowboy,” which he later claimed was merely a rodeo reference rather than a threat. The court, however, viewed the statement in the broader context of their relationship and other communications, ultimately concluding it contributed to Langston’s reasonable fear.

These nuances make dating violence cases particularly challenging to defend. A single message, sarcastic comment, or heated argument can be misconstrued, especially when emotions and reputations are at stake.

The Impact of an Injunction in Florida

Even though a restraining order is civil in nature, it can have serious criminal and professional consequences, including:

  • Firearm restrictions under federal and Florida law.

  • Public record exposure, which can harm careers and reputations.

  • Violation penalties — Any contact that breaches the order, even indirect contact on social media, can result in arrest and criminal charges.

For a public figure like a member of Congress, the implications are even greater, but these same laws apply to anyone, from executives and professionals to everyday citizens in Palm Beach County.

If You’ve Been Served With a Domestic Violence or Dating Violence Injunction

Being accused of dating or domestic violence in Florida does not mean you are guilty. Many injunctions are filed during contentious breakups or emotional disputes and can be based on misunderstandings or exaggerated claims.

Our firm frequently represents clients facing injunctions in Palm Beach County, including cases involving dating violence, stalking, or alleged harassment. We know how to:

  • Challenge the evidence supporting the injunction.

  • Expose inconsistencies or credibility issues in the petitioner’s testimony.

  • Protect your reputation and professional licenses.

  • Work to modify or dissolve injunctions that are improperly issued.

An injunction hearing can feel one-sided, but with the right defense, you can present a clear, factual account that restores balance in court.

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Protect Your Rights — Contact Our Palm Beach County Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

If you’ve been served with a restraining order or dating violence injunction in Palm Beach County or South Florida, it’s crucial to act immediately. You typically have only a few days before your hearing to prepare your defense.

At The Law Offices of Matthew Konecky, P.A., our criminal defense attorney understands the impact these accusations can have — especially for professionals and public figures. Our goal is to protect your future, your privacy, and your name.

Learn more about how we defend these types of domestic violence injunctions.

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