Sex crimes in Houston, Texas: Prosecutors Pursue Serious Charges Even Against First-Time offenders
Sex crimes in Houston, Texas, are crimes that law enforcement heavily pursues. Not only that, but both state and federal law enforcement officers are on the lookout for sex crimes. With sting operations, law enforcement works to bring many offenders to justice at one time.
But those arrested in connection to sex crimes still have rights. If you’ve been arrested for suspicion of sex crimes, the first step you should take is invoking your right to remain silent. The second step is to request the ability to call your lawyer.
Outlining sex crimes in Texas
Many violations in Texas could leave you facing sex crime charges. The most common violations include:
- Sexual assault
- Prostitution
- Solicitation
- Child pornography
- Sexual assault of a child
- Indecency with a child
To be charged with solicitation, you can be charged even if no sex took place. You could face charges for offering to pay money for sex or offering any other object of monetary value in exchange for sex. Or, you could be charged as a witness who did nothing to stop solicitation or human trafficking.
The same is valid for sexual crimes against minors. Even if your interactions are all online and you never get near the child, you could face child sex crimes for solicitation of a minor or child pornography.
Sex crimes in Houston, Texas penalties
The penalty for sex crimes in Houston, Texas, varies based on the severity of the crime. Even the less serious crimes carry jail time and fines. One of the lesser charges is for solicitation of prostitution and is a Class B misdemeanor with the following penalties:
- Up to 180 days in jail, house arrest or probation
- Community service
- Up to $2,000 in fines
Plus, if you’re convicted of a sex crime, you could be required to register as a sex offender. Registered sex offenders can struggle to find employment and housing and must abide by rules about how close they can get to schools and other protected properties.
Defending yourself against Texas sex crime charges
Regardless of the circumstances around your arrest and the sex crimes you’re facing, there is a way to build a defense against the charges. Your Texas sex crimes attorney can review the information the prosecution has against you and decide what defense makes the most sense for you.
Some of these defenses include:
- Investigation into police actions that might violate your rights or be considered entrapment
- Identifying weak points in the case by reviewing all reports and evidence the prosecution has against you
- Lack of probable cause to arrest you, making the arrest unlawful
When you hire a private attorney, you get attention and devoted time in a way public defenders cannot provide due to enormous caseloads. The Law Offices Of James Alston will treat you like you’re our only client while bringing in our experience handling and winning hundreds of cases. Contact us for the defense you deserve to avoid a conviction for sex crimes in Houston, Texas.