Sex Crimes

What Is a Sex Crime in Florida?

In Florida, sex crimes cover a wide range of offenses, from misdemeanors to life felonies. Common examples include:

• Sexual battery (rape)

• Lewd or lascivious acts

• Solicitation or prostitution charges

• Possession or distribution of child pornography

• Unlawful sexual activity with a minor

• Indecent exposure or public sex

• Voyeurism or “peeping”

These offenses are prosecuted aggressively in Tampa Bay and across Florida, and convictions often carry mandatory sex offender registration.

Sex Crime Cases We Handle in Tampa Bay

“Sex crimes” include a wide variety of criminal offenses, each of which comes with its own set of potential penalties and will require a different defense approach.

Our firm can assist you if you have been charged with:

• Prostitution or solicitation
• Sexual battery
• Indecent exposure
• Lewd and lascivious acts
• Child pornography charges
• Failure to register as a sex offender after a conviction

Our team understands the complexities of sex crimes and is well-versed in forming robust defense strategies. Each case is unique, and we diligently evaluate the circumstances surrounding every charge to provide comprehensive representation.

Penalties for Sex Crimes in Tampa Bay

Many sex crimes will be charged as felonies, and some, like those related to child pornography, can be classified as federal offenses. If convicted, felons will be classified as sex offenders and need to register on the National Sex Offender Registry. Registered sex offenders will almost certainly have difficulty obtaining future work and housing opportunities. They will also need to make disclosures to neighbors and face other restrictions.

This is in addition to thousands of dollars in fines and potentially many years of incarceration. Penalties are generally even more severe if aggravating factors, such as the involvement of a minor or a weapon, are present.

Beyond legal penalties, you could face an overwhelming social stigma that can lead to ostracization and damaged relationships. You’ll face severe employment difficulties, with many professions becoming inaccessible due to background checks, and significant housing restrictions stemming from sex offender registration. Furthermore, a conviction can result in the loss of fundamental rights like voting and firearm possession.

Because of the severe consequences, working with a Pinellas County sex crimes defense lawyer as early as possible is critical.

Defending Against Sex Crime Charges

We craft personalized defense strategies based on your unique situation, considering the charges, undeniable facts, and available evidence. Our first step is always a thorough review of your account to determine the most effective defense approach for your case.

Every case is unique, but common strategies in sex crimes defense include:

• Challenging the credibility of witnesses
• Disputing forensic or DNA evidence
• Arguing consent where applicable
• Suppressing evidence from unlawful searches or interrogations
• Exposing false accusations or mistaken identity
• Examining evidence admissibility under Federal Rules (Rule 412)

In “he said/she said” sexual battery or rape cases, we often argue that consent was given and that you are facing a false accusation, leveraging witness testimony and expert opinions for support. For accusations of sexually assaulting strangers, we can pursue mistaken identity defenses, using DNA testing and other scientific evidence to establish innocence. If you were deceived about a partner’s age or ability to consent, we’ll argue you were misled and lacked unlawful intent.

For indecent exposure charges, various defenses may apply, such as permissible public breastfeeding or public urination in unincorporated areas with attempted concealment. Exceptions also exist for legitimate artistic performances involving public nudity. Prostitution charges can be fought by demonstrating a lack of criminal intent, or by proving entrapment if undercover officers coerced you into the alleged offense.

Our team carefully reviews every detail to build the strongest possible defense.

What to Do After Being Accused of Sexual Battery in Tampa Bay

Learning you have been accused of sexual assault or rape can be life-changing, especially if you know you took care to obtain consent before the encounter took place. You may be tempted to reach out to the accuser and set the record straight. While well-meaning, this is a mistake: You should avoid all contact with your accuser. Any contact is likely to be perceived as “unwanted,” and your words could be misconstrued.

Similarly, you should avoid making any public comments about the accusations, even if the accuser is spreading rumors or posting public statements themselves. It is understandable to want to defend yourself, but these crimes are heavily stigmatized. Anything you say could be used against you, so it is generally wiser to remain silent.

Preserve any written communications that took place between you and your accuser and document your version of events, including what happened before, during, and after the encounter. Make a list of any witnesses who were present in the events leading up to the encounter. Then, contact Haworth Legal. Our attorney is prepared to handle your case with the diligence and attention to detail it deserves.

Why Choose Haworth Criminal Defense?

• Local focus on Tampa, Clearwater, St. Pete, and Pinellas County courts

• Deep knowledge of Florida criminal law and sex offender statutes

• Proven experience defending clients in high-stakes felony and misdemeanor cases

• Commitment to discretion, aggressive advocacy, and protecting your rights

If you or a loved one is under investigation or has been charged with a sex crime in Tampa Bay, including Clearwater, St. Pete, or Pinellas County, Haworth Criminal Defense is ready to stand by your side.

Call today to schedule a confidential consultation and get experienced legal defense from a Florida sex crimes lawyer you can trust.

FAQs: Common Questions About Sex Crime Charges in Clearwater