Sex Crimes

Types of Sex Crimes

As a lawyer could further detail, the penalties for sex crimes in Owings Mills depend on the type of crime one is accused of committing. 

Rape (First and Second Degree)

First-degree rape involves sexual acts with threats and violence. This charge carries the harshest penalties, including life without parole. Second-degree rape also involves intercourse without consent when the victim is incapacitated, underage, or mentally vulnerable.

Sexual Offenses (Third and Fourth Degree)

These charges cover sexual acts and even just sexual contact, including:

• Third-degree sexual offenses involve unwanted sexual contact through threats or violence against an incapacitated person or underage children

• A fourth-degree sexual offense is usually considered a misdemeanor and involves non-consensual sexual contact with underage victims or when the aggressor is in a position of power, such as in the case of a teacher-student relationship

Online Harassment and Child Pornography

Maryland punishes sexual harassment even if it is done through phone or electronic messages. Child pornography cases often result in felony charges, especially if the defendant planned to distribute the illicit materials.

Prostitution and Solicitation

Offering or requesting sexual services, even online, can lead to arrest. Police often run sting operations to catch offenders.

Registering as a Sex Offender

Depending on the severity of the charge, the penalty for sex crimes in Owings Mills could include long-term prison sentences. However, the consequences of a conviction can far outlast incarceration time.

Upon conviction, offenders are required to register as sex offenders. This public registry can affect where an individual can live, work, or even travel. It may also harm personal relationships and career opportunities.

Defenses in Sex Crimes Cases

Regardless of the severity of charges, a skilled sex crimes attorney in Owings Mills could create a strong defense strategy. Defense options include:

• Consent

• False accusations

• Lack of evidence

• Police misconduct or entrapment

• Mental incapacity

• Age misrepresentation by the alleged victim

• Improper forensic procedures

• Violation of constitutional rights, including illegal search or seizure

• Coerced confession

Each sex crimes case is different, and an attorney could use one or more of the common defenses or create a new one based on the circumstances of your situation.