Being investigated or arrested for a sex crime can be a confusing, especially if you feel you did nothing wrong. You might be shocked to learn you are accused of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor in Pomeroy. Some people who look to be above the age of majority might be misrepresenting their age, causing significant issues for you.
Contact me at Andrew H. Stevenson, Attorney at Law as quickly as possible. I am an experienced criminal defense attorney with an emphasis in defending against sex crimes charges. I can review the evidence against you, counsel you on your options, and present the most persuasive defense possible in the circumstances.
How Does the Law Define Sexual Conduct With a Minor?
Ohio Revised Code § 2907.04 makes it illegal for someone over 18 to have sexual contact with someone between the ages of 13 and 16. Sexual contact, according to O.R.C. § 2901, is any touching of a person’s intimate body parts for their or your sexual gratification. The gender of the people involved do not matter.
You should know that there is an exception in the law that can overlook the conduct if the older person was unaware of the younger person’s age. This provision can provide a defense, especially if the younger person lied about their age, though it cannot be used in all situations.
You cannot have been “reckless” about discerning the younger person‘s age. When there were clear indications that the alleged victim was younger than 16, the lack of knowledge defense may not be effective. I will review the evidence and and use my 20+ years experience in defending Pomeroy clients against sexual misconduct with a minor to determine whether lack of knowledge is a viable defense.
Consent Is Not a Defense
Charges of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor may arise out of consensual romantic relationships, but no one under 16 can give effective legal consent to sexual contact. The alleged victim may not feel that a crime has been committed but their parent, guardian, or another adult may have alerted authorities.
Every situation is unique and presents its own challenges and opportunities to defend against the charge. The alleged victim or complainant may have made a false allegation, there may be insufficient evidence to prove that sexual contact occurred, or the police may have violated your rights during the investigation which taints any evidence they claim to have.
I have advanced training in forensics, which is an advantage when dealing with DNA evidence in cases where a person in Pomeroy engaged in unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. I also have the courtroom skills to expose false accusations and weak evidence.
Keep Potential Consequences in Mind
Sexual conduct with a minor is a felony charge with potentially severe consequences. The greater the age gap between you and the alleged victim, the more harsh the penalties. Regardless of age gap, all convictions can lead to prison, hefty fines, and registration as a sex offender.
Given the high stakes, it is absolutely essential that you refuse to speak with investigators unless your attorney is present. Invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and contact me immediately.
I can be with you during a police interview to ensure that they respect your rights and advise you whether to answer a question. If you are arraigned on unlawful sexual conduct charges in Pomeroy before you contact me, plead not guilty and explain to the judge that you have not yet spoken to an attorney.
Contact Me If You Are Accused of Unlawful Sexual Conduct With a Minor in Pomeroy, OH
As a criminal defense attorney with a particular emphasis on sex crimes, I understand the far-reaching consequences of a guilty plea or a conviction. I will use all my knowledge and skills to achieve the best outcome possible for you, and will keep you fully informed throughout the process. Call me at Andrew H. Stevenson, Attorney at Law if you are accused of sexual conduct with a minor in Pomeroy. You always have the right to plead your case in court.
