Sex crimes are a serious offense that can have lifelong consequences for the accused. In this article, we'll explore the different types of sex crimes, the penalties associated with these offenses, and what to do if you've been accused of a sex crime.
Types of Sex Crimes
Sex crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, from non-consensual sexual contact to child pornography. Some common types of sex crimes include:
Rape: Va. Code § 18.2-61. Non-consensual sexual intercourse
Carnal Knowledge: Va. Code § 18.2-63. Contact with a minor age 13 or 14
Forcible Sodomy: Va. Code § 18.2-67.1. Non-consensual sexual contact other than vaginal intercourse
Aggravated Sexual Battery: Va. Code § 18.2-67.3. Sexual abuse reliant on age and relation to the victim
Object Sexual Penetration: Va. Code § 18.2-67.2. Penetration of the labia major or anus with an animate or inanimate object
Indecent Liberties with a Minor: Va. Code § 18.2-370. Encouraging a minor to perform sexual acts
Contributing to Delinquency of a Minor: Va. Code § 18.2-371. Sexual conduct by an adult with a minor ages 15 to 17
This is by no means an exhaustive list. Virginia has a myriad of statutes dealing with different crimes involving sexual activity between two people. Always consult with an experienced sex crimes lawyer if you have questions.
Penalties for Sex Crimes
The penalties for sex crimes can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it was committed. In general, sex crimes carry harsher penalties than other types of criminal offenses due to their sensitive nature. Some common penalties for sex crimes include:
- Jail or prison time: Depending on the severity of the offense, the accused may be sentenced to anywhere from a few months to life in prison.
- Fines: The accused may be required to pay a significant amount of money as a penalty for the offense.
- Sex offender registration: Those convicted of sex crimes may be required to register as sex offenders, which can have lifelong consequences, such as difficulty finding employment and housing.
- Probation: Those convicted of sex crimes may be placed on probation, which requires them to adhere to certain restrictions and attend counseling or therapy.
- Loss of rights: Being convicted of a felony, which many sex offenses are, includes loss of your right to vote, hold office, or own a firearm.
What to Do If You've Been Accused of a Sex Crime
If you've been accused of a sex crime, it's important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. A skilled defense attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair trial. Some steps you can take if you've been accused of a sex crime include:
- Contacting an attorney: As soon as you're accused of a sex crime, contact an experienced defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
- Refraining from speaking to the police: It's important to remember that anything you say to the police can be used against you in court. Avoid speaking to the police without an attorney present.
- Gathering evidence: If possible, gather any evidence that can help prove your innocence, such as witness statements, video footage, or text messages.
Conclusion
Sex crimes are a serious offense that can have lifelong consequences for the accused. If you've been accused of a sex crime, it's important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair trial. At our firm, we're committed to providing the best possible legal information to help you navigate the complex world of sex crimes.