It can be frightening for an Indianapolis resident to face a sex crime charge in front of a state court. Under Indiana law, sex offenses are taken very seriously and, depending on the offense, can land a person in prison for decades. They also can mean strict terms of probation as well as fines and other repercussions. Additionally, especially if one must register as a sex offender, it may be extremely hard to find a job or even to find a place where one can legally live.
However, it is important to remember that federal law also includes several provisions that define and set out punishments for various sex crimes. For instance, if one is accused of crossing a state line and also engaging in sexual acts with a child, then the charge may be filed in federal court. It is important to note that, under federal law, sexual acts can also include inappropriate touching. Someone convicted under this federal law may face 30 years in prison even for a first offense.
Federal law also has provisions that punish the use, manufacturing and distribution of child pornography. Someone convicted under this statute can wind up facing up to 30 years in prison and will likely spend 15 years in prison. Again, these potential penalties would apply to first-time offenders.
Whether filed in state or in federal court, charges related to sex crimes are always serious affairs. Given the very sensitive nature of such cases and the harsh penalties involved, it is advisable for anyone accused of these sorts of offenses to speak with a legal professional.
