The term “sex crime” covers a myriad of offenses related to sexually motivated crimes. In this article, a sex crime defense attorney in St. Petersburg will discuss several of the most common offenses that are labeled as sex crimes. Whether you’re accused of sexual battery or an internet-related sex crime, any accusation of a sexually motivated offense is a grave and serious matter. Consult the knowledgeable attorneys at Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan so that we can discuss possible defenses against your particular sex crime allegation.
Sexual Assault / Sexual Battery Crimes
Sadly, millions of people are impacted every year by sexual assault crimes. Sexual assault crimes can vary greatly and include acts of unwanted contact with sexual organs, rape or attempted rape, and lewd or lascivious conduct. The vast majority of these crimes are classified as felonies in the State of Florida. If you have been accused of sexual assault, consult a sex crimes attorney in St. Petersburg to learn more about your legal options.
Indecent Exposure
In some cases, an individual doesn’t have to physically touch a victim in order to be charged with a sex crime. One such crime is indecent exposure, which occurs when an individual exposes their sexual organs with an intent to be lewd or indecent. For a first-time offender, indecent exposure will likely result in a misdemeanor offense.
Solicitation and Prostitution Crimes
If a person offers another individual compensation for a sexual act, this is considered solicitation of prostitution. Similarly, if a person offers to engage in a sexual act for compensation, this is considered prostitution. Pinellas County law enforcement has recently deployed a variety of sting operations and undercover tactics to make numerous arrests of individuals who make an offer to providing pay for sex. This often involves planting an undercover deputy posing as a streetwalker, as well as setting up fake profiles on-line that purport to offer “escort services.”
Sex Crimes Involving a Minor
For sex crimes involving a minor, the crime can involve traveling to meet a minor for a sexual motive, possession of child pornography, and solicitation of a child for sexual performance, among other criminal offenses. Other sex crimes involving minors are related to Florida’s age of consent and statutory rape laws. Generally, the penalty for a statutory rape crime is impacted by the age difference of the defendant and the victim, their relationship (for example, friends, family members, or teacher-student), and whether or not the defendant has a past criminal record of sex crimes.
If you have been charged with a sex crime, we cannot stress enough the seriousness of this allegation. At Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, we are a criminal defense law firm committed to our clients. In order to ensure that your case results in the best possible outcome, our attorneys will closely assess the circumstances of your case, answer any questions, and offer you knowledgeable legal advice.
For a free consultation with a sex crime defense attorney in St. Petersburg , please contact Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.