What to Do if You Are Being Investigated for a Sex Crime in Tampa, FL
Sex crime investigations are lengthy and complex, with harsh consequences and societal implications for any person accused. If you have been wrongly accused and are being investigated for a sex crime in Tampa, you need to be informed of what may occur from the investigation process and how to conduct yourself.
Due to the nature of the charge, the person accused will suffer lifelong consequences. Many times, allegations of a sexual offense or misconduct are fabricated or exaggerated. Having sex crime allegations will immediately place an intense stigma on the accused. To prevent your life from coming to a standstill because of wrongful accusations, immediately hiring an expert, skilled criminal defense attorney in Tampa will allow you the highest chance of dealing with wrongful allegations successfully.
Types of Sex Crimes
There are multiple types of sex crimes that could be investigated in Florida. These crimes are usually tried as felonies and will result in placement on the sex offender registry. They include:
- Sexual assault and battery
- Child pornography, or any sexual act, conduct, or performance of a child
- Sex with a minor
- Prostitution and solicitations
- Lascivious acts and indecent exposure of sexual organs
What Do I Do If I Am Being Investigated for a Sex Crime?
If you are being wrongly investigated for a sex crime, the primary thing to ensure is that you are seeking early intervention. By immediately seeking legal counsel from a distinguished sex crime defense attorney in Tampa, you are actively protecting yourself and improving your chances of obtaining a dismissal or avoiding charges.
When investigating a sex crime, the police may investigate you for an extended period of time without your knowledge. When you find out that you are being investigated, the most important thing to remember is to not call the police or contact the victim. Anything you say or do, even when attempting to clear your name, can and will be used against you in a court of law. If you are asked to meet for questioning by an officer or investigative detective, inform them that you will answer after speaking with your sex crime attorney.
What Can I Expect During a Sex Crime Investigation?
You can expect your sex crime investigation to last for months, at the very least. The process is lengthy, with charging, investigating, and court system progression each taking, at least, a few weeks to occur. Being aware of how these lengthy, complex investigations occur and are conducted will better equip you in the case that you are being investigated based on sex crime allegations. In addition, quickly seeking out a criminal defense attorney for your Tampa will allow your case to be better positioned effectively for your justice. Here is a list of what can be expected during this process:
- There will be a police report filed. This will either be by the plaintiff, someone who suspects that sexual criminal conduct, or even a police sting.
- The preliminary investigation will take place. Typically, the alleged victim will be contacted, as well as any possible witnesses. The investigator will begin to gather their evidence and will look closely into your background
- The police will attempt to gather information through thorough interviews with the alleged victim and any relevant witnesses
- The police may try to sneakily engage you through the methods of posing as children to attempt to lure the defendant to engage with them, especially online, posting online ads with made-up children being offered sexually, posing as someone who wants to obtain pornographic material from you, or securing warrants to tap your phone lines and investigate your electronics
- The investigating officer will then contact you. This usually occurs when there is a belief of solid preliminary evidence of your alleged sex crime offense. Whether the officer asks to meet with you at home or have you come into the police station, you should never agree to anything before consulting with your attorney, ensuring that you give your attorney the officer’s name and contact information.
- The investigation will continue, and if the investigative officer, or the prosecution, believes that there is enough gathered evidence, you will either be arrested and charged for your alleged offense, or the prosecution could seek an indictment.
- There may be a grand jury that is sought out to listen to the gathered evidence or a filed complaint alongside the gathered evidence, and the prosecution may even indict you for a felony sex offense charge. During this time, your Tampa criminal defense attorney will have been working diligently to gather evidence supporting your innocence.
- If your case gets to court, following your arrest, you will be brought in for your first appearance. You will be informed of the charges against you, as well as the conditions for your release, and your attorney will be there to negotiate on your behalf.
Our sex crimes defense team will guide you through the process, protecting you and your rights with each step. Lead Attorney Anthony Rickman is aggressive and diligent in fighting your charge and the accusation against you before you ever step foot in a courtroom. Many times, he can get the state to drop the charges and accusations against you before they even get to court.
The Rickman Law Firm Will Fight for You
Rickman Law Firm has the experience, skill, and aggressive defense that you need for your case. Our law firm is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For your free consultation with a sex crime defense attorney in Tampa, fill out our consultation form or call The Rickman Law Firm any time at 813-999-0502.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.