Youngstown Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

Aggressive Defense for a Range of Sex Charges:

• Rape
• Prostitution
• Sexual battery
• Sexual assault
• Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
• Voyeurism
• Sexual imposition
• Compelling prostitution

To learn more, schedule your free consultation and take a look at our case results!

Penalties for Sex Crimes in Ohio

In Ohio, penalties for common sex crime charges can vary significantly based on the specific offense, the circumstances surrounding the crime, and prior criminal history. Here’s an overview of some common sex crimes and their potential penalties:

Rape

Non-consensual sexual intercourse is classified as a first-degree felony. Penalties include 3 to 11 years in prison, depending on specific circumstances such as the use of force. Conviction also requires mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Sexual Assault

Non-consensual sexual contact, which may or may not involve penetration, is typically classified as a second-degree felony, sexual assault carries a punishment of 2 to 8 years in prison. Like rape, it also necessitates registration as a sex offender.

Statutory Rape

Engaging in sexual activity with a minor below the age of consent (16 years in Ohio) is charged as a third-degree felony, statutory rape can result in 1 to 5 years in prison. Convicted individuals must register as sex offenders.

Child Pornography

Possessing, producing, or distributing sexually explicit material involving minors is generally classified as a second-degree felony for possession and a first-degree felony for production or distribution. Possession penalties range from 2 to 8 years, while production/distribution can lead to 3 to 11 years in prison. Registration as a sex offender is mandatory.

Indecent Exposure

Exposing one’s genitals to others in a public place id usually classified as a fourth-degree misdemeanor, indecent exposure can result in up to 30 days in jail and/or fines. Subsequent offenses may escalate to more severe penalties, including felony charges.

Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor

Engaging in sexual conduct with a person aged 16 or 17 when the offender is 18 or older is classified as a fourth-degree felony, punishable by 6 to 18 months in prison. Conviction also requires sex offender registration.

Defense Strategies for Sex Crimes Accusations

Here are some key defense strategies for sex crimes accusations our sex crime defense lawyers in Youngstown may employ in your case:

• Challenging Credibility of the Accuser: We can explore possible motives behind the accusations, such as personal grievances, revenge, or misunderstandings.
• Documentation: Our Youngstown sex crime attorneys may gather communications (texts, emails) or identify witnesses that indicate mutual consent.
• Proving False Allegations: We can collect evidence that supports claims of innocence, including alibis or physical evidence that contradicts the allegations.
• Challenging Evidence: We may scrutinize how evidence was collected and handled to identify any procedural errors that could weaken the prosecution's case.
• Highlighting Lack of Intent: We may argue that the accused did not intend to commit a crime, perhaps due to misunderstanding or lack of knowledge about the situation.
• Mitigating Circumstances: We can highlight factors that could mitigate the severity of the allegations, such as mental health issues, intoxication, or the age of the parties involved.
• Utilizing Expert Testimony: We can work with psychologists to testify about the mental state of the accused or the alleged victim, particularly in cases involving consent or credibility issues. Also, we may use forensic experts to analyze physical evidence that may support the defense.

Sex Offender Registry in Ohio

In Ohio, anyone convicted of a sex crime must register as a sex offender. Sex offenders are divided into three tiers, with Tier 1 for lower offenses and Tier 3 reserved for the most severe offenses.

Depending on the tier your crime is placed in, you may face different registry requirements, such as how long you must register, how often to register, how visible your personal information may be to the public, etc.

To avoid being placed on this invasive registry or to avoid a severe tier classification, it is important that you have a qualified attorney defend your charges.