Sex Crime Laws in Katy, TX: Key Facts You Need to Know for Your Defense

Dealing with accusations of a sex crime is an incredibly serious situation. Sex crimes encompass numerous offenses, ranging from prostitution to sexual assault. It’s crucial to be aware of sex crime laws in Katy, TX, particularly if you have been arrested or are being investigated for an offense. That way, you can know what to expect from the Katy Police Department and the local court system.

Sex Crimes in Katy

Sex crimes in Texas are unwanted sexual interactions, so they are often charged as felonies. A felony can result in years in prison, from a minimum of two years to a life sentence. A conviction could also result in up to $10,000 in fines. These offenses include:

• Sexual assault. Sexual assault is usually charged as a second-degree felony except in aggravating or mitigating circumstances. There were nearly 15,000 cases of rape in Texas in 2019. 20 of these offenses occurred in Katy.
• Aggravated sexual assault. This offense is charged as a first-degree felony. It can result in a life sentence or a prison term of between five and 99 years.
• Continuous sexual abuse of a child or disabled person. This includes several acts of sexual abuse, such as aggravated kidnapping with the intent or act of committing sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual performance, trafficking, or compelled prostitution. This offense is charged as a first-degree felony.
• Online solicitation of a minor. This is usually charged as a third-degree felony. However, if the child is 14 or younger or the offender believes the child is 14 or younger, it is a second-degree felony.
• Prostitution. This is one of the few sex crimes that is not charged as a felony. Instead, it is usually a Class B misdemeanor, although aggravating factors may increase that to a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony. A state jail felony conviction results in between 180 days and two years in jail, along with up to $10,000 in fines.

Convictions for these offenses come with many other consequences on top of fines and jail time. One of the common consequences is the required registration as a sex offender.

What You Should Do to Prepare Your Defense

It is crucial that you work with a skilled criminal defense attorney quickly, whether you have been arrested and charged or you are possibly being investigated. You cannot assume that things will work out, as this case could change your entire future. An attorney can explain how serious the case against you is, prevent you from saying things that will be held against you, and create a stronger defense.

Your attorney can investigate the case and determine the right method of defense. This could include:

1. Filing motions to make sure improperly handled or other bad evidence is deemed inadmissible
2. Taking action against violations of constitutional rights
3. Proving that the prosecution does not meet their burden of proof
4. Questioning the credibility of the accusations made by the alleged victim
5. Proving that there was consent for the alleged offense
6. Providing evidence of clear innocence, such as an alibi
7. Demonstrating a lack of intent to commit the crime, such as in pornography possession
8. Asserting entrapment and coercion by law enforcement officers
9. Show that you lacked the mental capacity to understand the offense

Getting experienced legal counsel is essential for protecting your future, freedom, and reputation.

Work With a Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyer in Katy

The personal, criminal, and social consequences of a sex crime conviction can change your entire life. You need to work with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who understands the care and diligence needed to defend against sex crimes. Contact Segura & Kiatta today.