Wrong Place at the Wrong Time? Defending Yourself Against Sexual Assault Allegations
During this time of year, the Tampa area has no shortage of celebrations. Events like Gasparilla can be exciting, but when alcohol or drugs are involved, dangerous situations can occur. Sometimes the victim’s memory is clouded by anxiety and stress mixed with alcohol, and you might find yourself being accused of sexual assault just because you were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
So, what should you do if this happens to you?
In this brief article, sex crime defense attorneys in Tampa with our team at The Rickman Law Firm have shared what you should do to defend yourself against allegations of sexual assault if you were wrongly accused due to being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Gather Witness Information
Chances are, you know at least a few people who can confirm your innocence. For example, if you were visiting a Gasparilla event, you were likely attending with your friends. If you’ve been accused of any crime, but especially a sex crime, it’s important to make a list of as many witnesses as you can who were with you at the event or who saw the incident happen and can confirm that you were not the perpetrator.
The goal isn’t always to prove that a crime didn’t happen, just that you didn’t commit it so that you can help identify the real perpetrator. You should also make a list of the times and locations where you were. If you have photos to corroborate this, make sure to save them without modifying them so that their time stamp shows.
Do NOT Speak With Police Alone
When you’ve been accused of a crime, the police do not always have your best interests at heart. They may try to make you feel comfortable speaking with them, but anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
You should contact a sexual battery lawyer in Tampa before speaking to the police. Your attorney should be present for all interrogations, even if you have been arrested.
Contact an Experienced Sexual Battery Lawyer in Tampa
Allegations of rape or sexual assault are not taken lightly the state of Florida. Although your inclination may be to avoid the charges or ignore them because you know you are not guilty, you will need the best sex crime defense attorneys in Tampa. Protect yourself by working with The Rickman Law Firm.
Not only will your attorney help you defend yourself against these allegations, they will also be able to look at the evidence you have to aid the police in finding the person who is actually guilty.
Don’t leave your future to a public defender, especially when you know that you are not guilty. For a free consultation with the best sexual battery lawyer in Tampa, please contact The Rickman Law Firm today.
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.