Were You Accused Of An Internet Sex Crime?

For law enforcement officers prosecuting sex crimes, the Internet provides a treasure trove of evidence. In pictures, chat messages, texts and emails, prosecutors find the evidence they need to charge someone with a criminal offense. However, on the Internet, things aren’t always as they appear.

At Richard H. Sindel, Inc., in St. Louis, Missouri, we have been defending people accused of serious crimes since 1937. We recognize the Internet for what it is: a new way for prosecutors to charge people with offenses they may or may not have committed. If you have been accused of committing a sex crime on the Internet, call 314-499-1282 for a free initial consultation.

Examples of Internet sex offenses include:

• Viewing or trading child pornography online
• Making child pornography (or asking a minor to make a sex video)
• Making contact with a child for sexual purposes (also known as solicitation of a minor)
• Asking a minor to take and text or email nude pictures of himself or herself (sexting)
• Arranging face-to-face meetings with a minor for sexual purposes (also known as luring or traveling)
• Paying a prostitute for sex
• Promoting prostitution

The consequences of a sex crime conviction can be devastating, especially if the charge involves a minor. You face the loss of your family, your reputation and your employment. You may serve a lengthy prison sentence, followed by lifetime sex offender registration.

Building An Effective Defense

Our lawyers know how to build effective defenses to Internet sex crimes. For example, what prosecutors consider a sexual encounter in a chat room may be nothing more than role-playing between what you assumed was a consenting adult. Photos and videos can be sent to your computer without your knowledge or consent. Likewise, such items can be obtained in a bulk download without advance viewing or the chance to delete it or alter the search terms or commands.

Talk To Our Attorneys Before You Talk To Police

If you are accused of a crime, you have the right to remain silent and seek legal counsel. At no time in your life will this right be more important. In attempting to explain the situation, you could give police the evidence they need to charge you with a crime.

Before you talk to police, call 314-499-1282 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.