A Maryland track coach is facing new sex offense and assault charges after allegedly having sex with a teenager he met online through social media.
The man, who also stood accused of striking the 14-year-old with a stick during the encounter at his Montgomery County home in Germantown, turned himself into authorities earlier this month.
According to court records, the man has since contested that the sex was consensual, and that the teenager had lied about her age. In his statement to police, the man said that the girl told him that she was 20 years old.
Although the accused has denied the sex and assault charges, Montgomery County school officials confirmed that he was officially placed on unpaid administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation or trial.
Sex Crimes Defense
Sex crime is a fairly broad term that refers to misdemeanor or first-degree sexual misconduct, including abuse involving a deadly weapon. Such crimes include:
- Statutory rape
- Pandering or pimping
- Prostitution
- Indecent exposure
- Child pornography
In the District of Columbia, the penalties for sex crimes can be severe. If there are no aggravating circumstances, the maximum penalty for first-degree sexual abuse is no more than 30 years. In cases involving unarmed second-degree abuse, the maximum sentence is 20 years. Third and fourth degree offenses carry a maximum sentence of 10 and five years, respectively.
In cases of misdemeanor abuse in Washington, D.C., a maximum sentence of 180 days may be ordered.
If someone is convicted of a sex crime, they are required to register as a sex offender. Depending on the nature of the crime, this registration can last for a few years, or be required for life.
If you or someone you love has been implicated in a sex crime, it is important that you seek aggressive legal representation as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, many cases involving a sex crimes come down to one party’s word against another. That means that you need an attorney with in-depth investigation skills, who can thoroughly assess your case to establish a sound defense.
Finding a Criminal Defense Attorney
That’s where the defense attorneys at Lotze Mosley, LLP come in. Our highly skilled legal team specializes in criminal defense matters, including defense of charges stemming from sex crimes. We have a great deal of experience in defending against sexual abuse allegations, and can work with you, regardless of the circumstances of your case, to build a defense that delivers the best possible result.
We can provide the support and sound legal wisdom necessary during this difficult time. To schedule a preliminary consultation with a member of our criminal defense team, we invite you to contact the law office of Lotze Mosley, LLP at (202) 393-0535.