Facing sex crime charges in Dayton, Ohio, requires a skilled and experienced defense attorney who understands the complexities of the law. At Gounaris Abboud, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and providing strategic legal representation tailored to your case.
With over 50 years of collective experience, our Dayton sex crimes defense attorneys are dedicated to safeguarding your rights. With a deep understanding of Ohio’s legal landscape, we are committed to serving the residents of Montgomery County with unwavering dedication. Our extensive track record of success demonstrates our relentless pursuit of justice for our clients.
We understand the gravity of sex crime charges and offer strategic defense tailored to your needs. From the Ohio criminal court process to federal proceedings, we advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation with our seasoned team of Dayton sex crime lawyers.
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Chapter 2907 of the Ohio Revised Code delineates various circumstances under which individuals may face sex crime charges in Dayton, Montgomery County, and throughout Ohio. Among the most prevalent offenses are:
Rape charges (ORC § 2907.02) can arise when an individual forces or threatens another into sexual conduct, engages with a person under 13, or exploits the victim’s compromised mental or physical capacity. This offense typically carries severe penalties, as it is often prosecuted as a first-degree felony.
Sexual battery charges (ORC § 2907.03) can be levied if an individual coerces another into sexual conduct or takes advantage of the victim’s unawareness, impaired consent, mistaken identity, or vulnerable status, such as being a minor.
Punishments vary but may constitute second or third-degree felonies, with potential prison sentences extending up to eight years.
Compelling Prostitution
Compelling prostitution charges (ORC § 2907.21) may be brought against individuals who compel others to engage in sexual activities for hire, pay minors for such activities, or solicit sexual services from minors. Penalties, ranging from first- to third-degree felonies, often involve mandatory incarceration, influenced by the victim’s age and the offender’s criminal history.
Possession of Child Pornography
Possession of child pornography (ORC § 2907.322) encompasses soliciting, creating, or possessing explicit material involving minors. Penalties, varying from second- to fourth-degree felonies, hinge on factors like content volume and severity, potentially leading to lengthy prison terms of up to eight years.
Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles
In Ohio, disseminating matter harmful to juveniles involves knowingly distributing material deemed harmful or inappropriate for minors, intending to appeal to prurient interests, or depicting sexual conduct in an offensive manner.
Importuning
Importuning charges (ORC § 2907.07) may be filed if an individual solicits sexual activity from a child under 13, engages with a minor aged 13 to 16 while over 18, or solicits minors via electronic means. Typically treated as second- or third-degree felonies, convictions can result in imprisonment for up to eight years.
Gross Sexual Imposition
Gross sexual imposition charges (ORC § 2907.05) may arise if an individual allegedly sexually contacts another through force, coercion, intoxication, or when the victim is incapable of resistance or under 13 years old. This offense is considered to be a serious felony under Ohio law and may result in substantial prison sentences upon conviction.
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor (ORC § 2907.04) occurs when an adult engages in sexual activity with someone aged between 13 and 15 years old. This offense, prosecuted under Ohio law, carries significant legal ramifications, potentially leading to severe penalties and lifelong consequences for the accused.
In Ohio, sex offense penalties vary depending on the nature of the offense and factors such as the age of the victim, the offender’s criminal history, and the specific circumstances of the crime.
Penalties for sex offenses can include incarceration, fines, probation, mandatory sex offender registration, and other court-ordered requirements such as counseling or community service.
Here’s an overview of potential penalties for some common sex offenses in Ohio:
Sex Crime
Degree of Felony
Maximum Imprisonment
Maximum Fine
Rape
First
Life (depending on the age of the victim)
Up to $20,000
Sexual battery
Third
Up to 36 months
Up to $10,000
Sexual battery on a person under 13 years
Second
Up to 12 years
Up to $15,000
Gross sexual imposition
Fourth
Up to 18 months
Up to $5,000
Pandering obscenity involving a minor
Second
Up to 12 years
Up to $15,000
Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
Fourth
Up to 18 months
Up to $5,000
Importuning
Third
Up to 36 months
Up to $10,000
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
In Ohio, individuals convicted of certain sex offenses are required to register as sex offenders. The Ohio Sex Offender Registration and Notification (SORN) Program, governed by Chapter 2950 of the Ohio Revised Code, outlines registration requirements for convicted sex offenders.
Tier I Offenses
These offenses carry the least restrictive sex offender requirements.
Tier I offenses include:
Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor
Voyeurism
Sexual imposition
Illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance
Child enticement with sexual motivation
Pandering obscenity
Menacing by stalking with sexual motivation
Unlawful restraint with sexual motivation
Tier I offenders must register annually for 15 years with the Montgomery County Sheriff.
Tier II Offenses
Requirements for convicted sex offenders increase with each tier.
As such, offenses that qualify as being in tier II include:
Child endangering
Kidnapping with sexual motivation
Abduction with sexual motivation
Compelling prostitution
Pandering obscenity involving a minor
Pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor
Illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance
Gross sexual imposition of a victim under the age of 13
Tier II offenders must register every 180 days for 25 years with the Montgomery County Sheriff.
Tier III Offenses
You have to register four times a year with the Montgomery County Sheriff for life.
Offenses that fall into tier 3 include:
Rape
Sexual battery
Murder with sexual motivation
Unlawful death or termination of pregnancy from committing a felony with sexual motivation
Kidnapping of a minor to engage in sexual activity
Felonious assault with sexual motivation
Attempt or conspiracy to commit these offenses
Tier III offenders must register every 90 days for life.
Failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements can result in criminal charges and additional penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
What Are the Possible Defenses Against Sex Offense Charges in Ohio?
In Dayton, Ohio, individuals facing sex offense charges have several potential defenses available to challenge the allegations.
Some common defenses include:
Consent
If the alleged sexual activity was consensual and both parties willingly participated, it may serve as a defense against certain sex offense charges.
False Accusations
Providing evidence to prove misunderstandings, mistaken identity, or malicious intent can be a viable defense strategy.
Lack of Evidence
If there is insufficient evidence to support the charges, the defense may argue for dismissal or acquittal.
Alibi
If the defendant can provide evidence demonstrating that they were elsewhere at the time of the alleged offense, it may serve as a strong defense against the charges.
Mental Incapacity
If the defendant couldn’t understand the activity or consent to it due to intoxication, mental illness, or developmental disabilities, it may be a valid defense.
Statute of Limitations
In some cases, the statute of limitations may have expired, preventing the prosecution from bringing charges for certain alleged offenses.
Police Misconduct or Procedural Errors
If law enforcement officers violate the defendant’s rights, it may lead to the exclusion of evidence or dismissal of the case.
Victim's Credibility
Challenging the credibility of the alleged victim and presenting evidence of inconsistencies can undermine the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment
If law enforcement officers coerced, persuaded, or deceived the defendant into committing the alleged offense, it may constitute entrapment and serve as a defense.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
If the defendant acted in self-defense or defense of others to prevent harm, it may serve as a defense against certain sex offense charges.
Your attorney will work with you to develop a personalized defense that could help you avoid conviction or reduce the penalties you face.
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Our sex crime attorneys are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and defense strategies tailored to your unique situation. Here’s how we can assist you:
1.
Legal Guidance
We offer legal guidance throughout every stage of your case, ensuring you understand your rights, the charges against you, and the potential consequences.
2.
Strategic Defense
We will meticulously analyze the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a defense to pursue the best possible outcome.
3.
Case Investigation
We conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and uncover any mitigating factors that could support your defense.
4.
Negotiation
We negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges, plea bargains, or alternative sentencing options, aiming to minimize the impact on your life and future.
5.
Court Representation
Our attorney can present compelling arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf during hearings and trials.
We also advocate for your interests beyond the courtroom, assisting with matters such as sex offender registration requirements, probation compliance, and post-conviction options.
Why Choose Dayton Sex Crime Lawyers at Gounaris Abboud?
When facing sex crime allegations in Dayton, Ohio, choosing Gounaris Abboud as your legal representation offers numerous advantages:
50+ Years of Experience
We understand the complexities of Ohio's sex crime laws and have a proven track record of success in achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Personalized Approach
We recognize that every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each client. You can expect personalized attention, compassionate support, and dedicated advocacy from our legal team.
Strategic Defense
Whether through negotiation, litigation, or alternative dispute resolution methods, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
Client-Centered Approach
At Gounaris Abboud, we prioritize client satisfaction and strive to exceed expectations in every case. We keep our clients informed, involved, and empowered throughout the legal process, ensuring transparency and open communication at all times.
Confidentiality
We understand the sensitive nature of sex crime cases and handle every matter with the utmost discretion and confidentiality. You can trust that your privacy will be respected.
I found Gounaris and Abboud through good online reviews. Mr. Abboud handled my cases very professionally for two years. He truly takes his cases to heart and cares about his clients. He keeps you informed and has all the answers to all your questions. You really feel safe with Mr. Abboud as your lawyer. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing professional family law representation.
Patty M.
5
They did absolutely everything possible to help reduce the sentence and charges faced. The fees for their services were worth every cent and superior to any public defendant representation. They both put their hearts into their work and care like nobody else I have ever encountered in the legal system.
Melinda Q.
5
Attorney Nick Gounaris handled my case and he did a wonderful job. I am very pleased with this law firm. I have never been in the situation I found myself in ever before and it was scary and confusing, but Nick and his staff were wonderful with answering my many questions and they were very sympathetic and understanding, always quick to respond when I would call. I am happy with the outcome of my case. If you find yourself in a situation that needs legal help, these are the guys to call!
Melinda Q.
5
I thought I was in a no win situation until I met these gentleman. They are smart, aggressive, dedicated, connected and CAN GET THE JOB DONE.
James O.
5
They did absolutely everything possible to help reduce the sentence and charges faced. They both put their heart into their work and care like nobody else.
Karis F.
5
I have never been in the situation I found myself in ever before and it was scary and confusing, but Nick and his staff were wonderful with answering my questions.
Melinda Q.
Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Today
Ready to defend your rights? Contact our experienced Dayton sex crime lawyers today for personalized legal guidance and strategic defense representation.
Can a conviction for a sex offense be expunged from my criminal record in Ohio?
In Ohio, expungement, also known as sealing of records, is available for certain criminal offenses, including some sex offenses. However, whether a conviction for a sex offense can be expunged depends on various factors, including the specific offense, the individual’s criminal history, and the amount of time that has passed since the conviction.
Can a minor be charged with a sex offense in Ohio?
Yes, a minor can be charged with a sex offense in Ohio if they engage in sexual activity that violates Ohio’s laws regarding the age of consent or other sex-related offenses. However, the legal system may handle cases involving juvenile offenders differently, often focusing on rehabilitation and intervention rather than punitive measures.
