Nobody wants to be accused of a sex crime. The effects of even an accusation can be damaging. People will not trust you because they are scared you may act in an indecent manner toward them.
There are many types of sex crimes. They include sexual battery, child pornography, molestation, sodomy, public indecency, prostitution, and sex trafficking. One of the most common ones is rape, which is outlined in Ga. Code § 16-6-1. Rape occurs when a male sex organ penetrates a woman’s sex organ forcibly and against her will or if the female victim is under the age of 10. The punishment for rape can be imprisonment for life without parole, imprisonment for life, or even death.
As you can see, the penalties are harsh, so you need all the help you can get for a better outcome. You can defend yourself against sex crimes, but it is not easy. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help reduce or dismiss your charges.
Sex Crimes Defense Options
The proper defense for your sex crime charge will vary. Here are some common defenses:
- Consent: The defendant may claim the alleged victim consented to the sexual act. However, there needs to be strong evidence because it becomes a he-said/she-said situation. Messages, recordings, or witness testimony may be necessary to substantiate this defense.
- False accusation: The defendant may argue they were falsely accused due to motives like jealousy, revenge, or misunderstanding. Proving a false accusation often relies on inconsistencies in the accuser’s story or a strong alibi.
- Mistaken identity: The defendant may argue they were wrongly identified as the perpetrator. DNA evidence, surveillance footage, or witness statements may help establish the defendant's innocence.
- Alibi: The defendant can present evidence showing they were elsewhere during the alleged crime. This often requires credible witnesses or time-stamped proof, such as receipts or GPS data.
- Entrapment: The defendant may argue that law enforcement induced them to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. However, the defense must show that the idea originated with law enforcement, not the defendant.
- Age misrepresentation: In statutory rape cases, the defendant might argue they were misled about the alleged victim's age. This defense often depends on evidence showing the alleged victim lied or presented themselves as older.
- Insanity or mental incapacity: The defendant can argue that they lacked the mental capacity to understand the nature of their actions. However, this defense requires extensive psychological evaluation and expert testimony.
Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys You Can Trust
Sex crime accusations can ruin your life and reputation. An experienced lawyer can help defend you. The Georgia sex crime lawyers at Ghanayem & Rayasam can help you understand the charges you face. We have defended every type of sex crime and have received very satisfactory results for our clients. Call (404) 561-0202 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.