I Was Charged with a Minor Sexual Battery. What Do I Do Next?
Sex CrimesSex offenses involving minors, including statutory rape and child molestation, carry some of the harshest criminal penalties under Missouri law. Depending on the offense, you could be facing the rest of your life in prison if you’re convicted. If the police have accused you of illegal sex acts involving a minor, working with a St. Louis sex crimes defense lawyer can help protect your rights.
Stay Silent and Request an Attorney
After an arrest on sex crime charges, you may feel the need to explain yourself, but doing so without advice from an attorney can jeopardize your case. Remember that the police can and will use anything you say against you, even if you believe what you’re saying will help you. Politely assert your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. This step helps ensure the police or prosecutors don’t violate your rights and prevents you from making statements that they might misinterpret.
Avoid Contact with the Alleged Victim
Reaching out to the alleged victim or their family can escalate the situation and potentially lead to additional charges, such as witness tampering. Even if you believe communication could clarify misunderstandings, it’s essential to avoid direct or indirect contact. Let your attorney handle all communications with the alleged victim and law enforcement to protect your defense.
Preserve Evidence and Document Events
Write down your recollection of events, including timelines, locations, and interactions. If any witnesses or evidence could support your defense (text messages, photos, etc.), inform your attorney immediately. Preserving this information early can strengthen your case and help identify discrepancies in the prosecution’s narrative.
Follow Bail Conditions Strictly
If you make bail, adhere to all court-ordered conditions, such as avoiding specific locations or people. Violating these terms could result in additional penalties and harm your credibility in court. Staying compliant demonstrates responsibility and respect for the legal process.
Consult a St. Louis Criminal Defense Attorney
Accusations of illegal sexual activity with a minor are highly sensitive and carry severe consequences, including life prison sentences in some cases. An experienced attorney can evaluate the charges, scrutinize evidence, and develop a robust defense strategy tailored to your situation. They can also challenge improperly obtained evidence, question witness credibility, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges where possible.
Defenses Against Allegations of Sex Acts with Minors
The best defense against allegations of illegal sexual activity with minors depends on the facts of your case, but some strategies a defense lawyer might use include:
- Challenging the credibility of the alleged victim or witnesses
- Proving lack of intent to commit the alleged act
- Demonstrating mistaken identity or offering an alibi
- Arguing the police obtained evidence against you through an unlawful search or seizure
- Contesting inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case
- Highlighting improper police procedures during the investigation
- Exposing motivations for false accusations, such as personal vendettas by the alleged victim or their family
- Questioning the reliability of forensic evidence or expert testimony
Contact a St. Lous Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Now
Attorney Richard H. Sindel and his team have extensive experience with complex criminal cases, including successful conviction reversals before the U.S. Supreme Court. We can provide the robust defense you need to fight these charges and protect your reputation. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.