Any accusations involving sex crimes deserve a serious investigation. However, regardless of the claims against him or her, a person is presumed innocent unless there is sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Often, this high standard is difficult to meet with such accusations. Unfortunately, one Missouri man is currently being held after he was accused of statutory rape.
The case involves a 16-year-old female. The teenager went to a police department with her parents to report that she had had at least four sexual interactions with the man now accused. The interactions allegedly began in Aug. 2016. According to reports, the defendant would call the teenager’s school, posing as her father and giving her permission to leave school early.
The two would then allegedly go to the man’s house and engage in sexual intercourse. Her parents reportedly provided evidence that showed the teenager had been dismissed from school on certain days. Upon arrest, police claim that the man admitted to having a sexual relationship with the girl. He is currently being held on a $50,000 bond.
Many people in Missouri facing accusations of statutory rape and other charges are unaware of how to best defend themselves. Fortunately, there are attorneys with experience in handling such cases who can provide guidance. This guidance can begin early — even before charges are filed — in order to ensure that those accused are fully advised on how best to proceed. Such help can provide defendants with some peace of mind as they likely feel more prepared to make decisions that could ultimately have a major impact on the rest of their life.
Source: abc17news.com, “Man arrested for statutory rape, sodomy with 16-year-old female”, Marie Bowman, Jan. 25, 2017