Kent Sex Crime Lawyer

Kent Sex Crime Attorney

In a single moment, a simple accusation can upend your entire life and make you feel as though everything is spinning out of control. Whether you are facing allegations of voyeurism or a felony such as rape, these charges can send your life entirely off course. Whether you are a student at Kent State or an employee at a local grocery store, your freedoms and rights are at risk. With so much at stake, you need a Kent, OH, sex crimes lawyer.

At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, our experienced attorneys have years of experience fighting for our clients’ rights. Since the firm’s formation in 2008, we have worked to defend individuals from all manner of criminal charges, including those for sex crimes. Our experience with local Kent and Portage County judges, prosecutors, and court systems gives us an edge in criminal cases, and we can do everything in our power to fight for your future and protection.

Common Sex Crimes and Penalties in Kent, OH

The state of Ohio is no stranger to sex crimes. In fact, in 2023, the state saw a rate of sexual assault of about 116 per 100,000 residents. When facing these charges in Kent, it can be helpful to understand the definitions of these crimes and the penalties you might face. In Kent, Ohio, sex crimes include the following offenses:

• Rape. It is against Ohio law to take part in any kind of sexual activity with an individual through the use of force or threat of force. It is likewise illegal to engage in sexual activity with a person who has been impaired through the use of alcohol or drugs that were administered through threat, force, or deception. Rape is a first-degree felony charge.
  
• Sexual battery. It is illegal to engage in any kind of sexual conduct with another individual through the use of coercion that would keep them from resisting, or when you know the other person is either not aware of what is taking place or significantly impaired. Sexual battery is usually considered a third-degree felony, but can be upgraded to second-degree if the victim is a minor.
  
• Child pornography. It is against state and federal law to produce, possess, or transport any kind of child pornography. Depending on the exact nature and severity of the offense, the charges involved can vary.
  
• Solicitation. In Ohio, it is illegal to solicit another individual for sexual activity in exchange for money or goods. The charge will vary based on the circumstances of the alleged crime; however, it will at least be a third-degree misdemeanor. If the individual solicited is a minor with a developmental disability, the charge will be increased to a felony.
  
• Prostitution. It is against the law to engage in any kind of sexual behavior or activity for hire or for the exchange of goods or money. In almost all prostitution cases, the alleged offender will be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor.
  
• Public indecency. It is illegal to recklessly and publicly expose your private areas or engage in sexual behavior or masturbation in a public place. It is also illegal to do so with the intent of sexual arousal, gratification, or luring minor individuals. In many cases, this will be charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor unless you have previous convictions or the victim involved is a minor.
  
• Voyeurism. It is against the law to trespass on the property of another to invade their privacy, spy, or eavesdrop for the purpose of sexual arousal. It is also illegal to film, photograph, or record an individual in the nude without their consent for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification. Depending on the nature of the situation, this can be charged as a first-, second-, or third-degree misdemeanor.

The degree of severity involved in your charge can come with several consequences. You may face jail time, fines, probation, and the requirement to register as a sex offender. All of these penalties can have a negative impact on your personal life. You might find yourself out of a job, kicked out of your housing, and dealing with difficulties when it comes to your personal relationships. 

FAQs

Q: What Is the Court Process for Sex Crime Cases in Kent?

A: An alleged offender involved in a sex crime case in Kent will be taken to the police station and will need to make an initial court appearance, known as an arraignment. This is when they will enter their initial plea. They will then go through pre-trial hearings before the trial begins. In these pre-trial hearings, the attorney and the prosecution will try to reach a plea deal. If a deal is not reached, a trial commences.

Q: What Are Some Common Defenses Against Sex Crimes?

A: Common defenses against sex crimes can include arguing false allegations, a lack of evidence to support a case against you, that the alleged victim offered their consent, or that you have suffered from mistaken identity. In Ohio, the defense used in your case will depend on the exact nature of the offense. 

Q: What Is the Sexual Assault Crime Rate in Ohio?

A: In Ohio, the sexual assault crime rate decreased from 121.7 to 116.4 per 100,000 people between 2016 and 2023. Of these reported incidents, 46.8% were rape offenses. When looking at these numbers, you might think that your case is hopeless, but reaching out to a criminal defense attorney can save you from becoming just another statistic.

Q: How Long Can a Sex Crime Case Take in Ohio?

A: It can be difficult to offer an exact number for how long a sex crime case might take to reach a verdict in Ohio. This is due to the fact that there are several variables in these cases that can affect the overall time frame. These variables include the court’s current caseload and the availability of the evidence. 

Trust DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder to Fight for You Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a sex crime in Kent, Ohio, the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder is here to help. We have the knowledge necessary to review your case and build a solid defense strategy that can stand up against the prosecution’s case. Contact our firm today to learn more and to schedule your initial consultation with our team.