Stow Sex Crime Lawyer

Stow Sex Crime Attorney

Finding yourself accused of a sex crime in Stow, Ohio, can cast a shadow over several areas of your life, including employment, relationships, and your standing in the community. Whether you have been accused of voyeurism or rape, the consequences of a conviction could threaten your job at places like Western Reserve Hospital or Stow-Munro Falls High School. Thankfully, a Stow sex crime lawyer is here to build you a strong defense.

At the law office of DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we have the experience necessary to help you fight against your sex crime charges. Since the firm’s formation in 2008, we have been supporting our clients using fierce legal advocacy and evidence. Allow us to come alongside you during this difficult time and offer you the legal guidance and representation you deserve.

Sex Crimes Common in Stow, Ohio

There are several sex crimes that are common in Stow, Ohio. In fact, in 2023, the rate of reported sexual assaults in the state was 116.4 per 100,000 residents. Looking at these numbers, you might feel as though your case is hopeless. Instead of letting the hopelessness shut you down, turn to a criminal defense lawyer who can help ensure you don’t become just another statistic. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we have experience defending against the following crimes:

Rape

In the state of Ohio, it is illegal to engage in any kind of sexual activity or conduct with another individual through the use or threat of force or when you have used alcohol or drugs to impair the victim’s judgment, control, and ability to consent. Rape is often considered a first-degree felony and can be punished with lengthy prison times and high fines.

Sexual Battery

It is illegal in the state of Ohio to engage in any kind of sexual contact with another individual through the use or threat of force or by intentionally impairing the victim’s ability to resist or consent to the contact. This is often considered to be a third-degree felony unless the alleged victim is a minor. Then, it will most likely be charged as a second-degree felony, leading to consequences like long prison times.

Child Pornography

It is against state and federal law to produce, transport, or possess any kind of pornographic material depicting children. The nature of the charge will ultimately depend on the circumstances of the crime and the kind of material involved.

Public Indecency

In Stow, Ohio, it is against the law for any individual to recklessly and publicly expose their private parts for self-gratification or arousal or to lure minors. It is likewise illegal to take part in sexual activities, such as intercourse or masturbation, in a public place such as a park or library.

Solicitation

In Stow, it is illegal to solicit any kind of sexual activity for hire or in exchange for goods or money. The charge for solicitation will ultimately depend on the nature of the crime, but will most likely be charged as a third-degree misdemeanor unless the alleged victim is a minor with a developmental disability. In this case, it will be charged as a felony.

Prostitution

It is illegal in Stow to engage in any kind of sexual activity for hire. If you are found to be guilty of this charge, you can be convicted of a third-degree misdemeanor. If you are found to be positive for HIV, the charges might increase.

Defending Against Stow, Ohio, Sex Crime Charges

Whether your case is being heard at the Stow Municipal Court or at the Summit County Court, the attorneys at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder can review your case and help determine the right course of action to take in your defense. Common defenses for these crimes include the following:

• Consent. Your Stow sex crime attorney may argue that you received consent from the alleged victim before the sexual conduct or activity took place, depending on the nature of the supposed crime.
• Mistaken identity. You may be the victim of mistaken identity, as the alleged victim in the case might have misidentified you as the offender.
• Lack of evidence. Prosecutors may not be able to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt if there is not enough evidence to support their case.
• False accusations. Some folks may be falsely accused of a sex crime in Stow, especially in the case of a malicious ex-spouse or partner who is seeking revenge or has other ulterior motives.

FAQs

How Many Women Are Victims of Sexual Assault in Ohio?

The number of women who are victims of sexual assault in Ohio changes from year to year. Ohio’s Department of Public Safety reported that in 2023, the rate of females who were victims of sexual assault was 131.24 per 100,000 individuals. This is a small decrease from the previous year.

Why Do I Need an Attorney for a Sex Crime Case?

You need an attorney for a sex crime case because your chances of a favorable case outcome improve with experienced and skilled legal representation on your side. While having an attorney is not strictly required, it can make all the difference in your case. Your attorney can review your case, investigate the alleged crime, uncover evidence to support your defense, enter into negotiations with the prosecution, and represent you in court.

How Long Will a Sex Crimes Case Take?

It can be difficult to offer an exact time frame for a sex crimes case in Ohio. This is due to the fact that there are several factors related to the case that can impact the overall timeline, including the case complexity, the availability of the evidence, and the court’s current caseload.

What Is the Lowest Tier Sex Offender in Ohio?

In Ohio, the lowest tier for a sex offender is Tier 1. Convictions that typically fall under the Tier 1 sex offender registry include sexual imposition or gross sexual imposition, voyeurism, the illegal use of a minor in a nude performance or to create nude material, menacing an individual by stalking them with sexual motivation, and unlawful restraint with sexual motivation.

Speak With a Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer in Stow Today

If you or a loved one has been accused of a sex crime in Stow, now is the time to contact an attorney. With your very freedoms and future at stake, you do not want to try and defend these charges yourself. Instead, turn to the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder. Contact us today to set up your initial consultation.