Sexual battery, also known as criminal sexual contact, entails non-consensual sexual conduct without penetration. Consent and sexual battery are crucial, as lack of consent is the most important component of sex crimes. While typically considered less severe than rape or criminal sexual penetration, it remains a felony in some states. Sexual offense penalties range from one to several years in prison, depending on circumstances and state sentencing guidelines. These sexual assault laws are very strict.
Conviction not only results in criminal charges and legal consequences and sex offender registration but also poses significant employment, licensing, and immigration risks. Regarded as a crime of moral turpitude, it can hinder job opportunities and lead to dismissal. Professions requiring state board licensing, such as doctors, lawyers, and teachers, may revoke or deny licenses based on background checks. Immigration consequences are particularly severe, with non-citizens facing denial of admission, naturalization, or even deportation with a capital sexual battery conviction on their record. Sexual harassment legal consequences are much more than just penalties and jail time.
How To Report Sexual Battery?
You have several options for reporting sexual assault:
- If in immediate danger, call 911.
- Contact local law enforcement to file a detailed police report and cooperate fully. Call the direct line of your local police station or visit the station in person.
- Reach out to support organizations for guidance and emotional support. Contact local advocacy organizations or helplines.
- Visit a medical center.
Preserve evidence by avoiding showering or changing clothes. Seek medical attention to document injuries. Tell your friends or family about it so they can support you. It’s not easy, but reporting what happened is important for fairness and getting better.
What Evidence Is Crucial In A Sexual Battery Case?
While all evidence has its value in building a solid case, some forms of evidence stand out as particularly vital when charge with sexual battery cases:
- DNA Samples-Hair, blood, saliva, and semen link the suspect directly to the crime scene. Also, any evidence collected from the victim’s body and clothing is crucial.
- Forensic Exams can establish a timeline and link the suspect to the battery charged.
- Victims’ clothing is Valuable physical evidence to strengthen the case. They can contain the attacker’s DNA or show signs of a struggle.
- Witness Testimony Provides insights into the behavior of the victim and accused before or after the assault.
- In the digital age, electronic evidence such as text messages, emails, and social media interactions can reveal threats or admissions. Security camera footage may capture the battery or the movements of those involved. Phone records help establish the accused’s locations and activities during the assault.
- Medical records document physical/psychological injuries and treatments for infections/pregnancy from the assault, crucial for corroborating the victim’s testimony.
All these types of evidence together give a complete view, helping make a strong and trustworthy investigation for sexual assault battery.
Need Legal Help? Contact An Experienced Lawyer Today!
The long-term consequences of being charged with a sex crime is significant, which is why if you are convicted of a sex crime, you may greatly benefit from being represented by a Philadelphia sexual battery lawyer. Further, these crimes can be extremely difficult due to the lack of witnesses as these cases tend to be solely between two people, which is why if you are charged with sexual battery, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your victim rights and legal options.
The serious and sensitive nature of sex crimes makes it extremely difficult to fight a conviction alone, but you don’t have to. Get help from a seasoned attorney and learn about the potential legal strategies, legal defenses, and options that they can provide you so as to alleviate your conviction.