What Is Considered A Sex Crime?
What Is A Sex Crime?
If you have been charged with a sex crime, it is common to feel confused. Your memory of what happened may seem very different from what police and prosecutors claim took place. Oftentimes, our clients will read the police report describing the incident and believe that it is a work of fiction, as opposed to the official version of what supposedly took place. Where does Massachusetts law draw the line between permitted sexual activity and a crime?
How Do You Know When A Sex Crime Has Taken Place?
In general, any time there is sexual conduct forced by one individual against another, a sex crime has taken place. However, there are cases, such as statutory rape, where both parties seem to have consented, but one is judged unable to consent by the law. This can be due to factors like the individual’s age or mental capacity. Then there are prostitution and solicitation of prostitution charges, in which both parties consent to an exchange of sex for payment, but the act is illegal in Massachusetts.
Sex crimes involving unwanted touching include rape, indecent assault and battery, and sexual assault. Note that physical contact does not have to involve coerced penetration to be a sex crime. Any bodily contact, including fondling or kissing, can potentially lead to a sexual assault charge if it was against the other person’s will or they are legally unable to give consent.
Other crimes do not involve physical contact with the victim, such as indecent exposure, voyeurism and possession of child pornography.
Because there are so many different forms of sex crimes, you need a defense attorney with extensive experience in this area of criminal law. David Yannetti and the rest of our team of seasoned Boston lawyers are capable of defending you against any type of sex charges.
Arrested On Sex Crime Charges? Talk To An Experienced Defense Attorney For Free.
If you have been charged with a sex crime or if you are currently under investigation, it is vital that you contact us as soon as you can. Call Yannetti Criminal Defense Law Firm at 617-297-9213 today for a free phone consultation or contact us online. Our offices are in Boston, Salem and Dedham and we are here to help you.
