Defending Against Philadelphia Sexual Exploitation Charges

Defending Against Philadelphia Sexual Exploitation Charges

Being accused of sexual exploitation in Philadelphia can be terrifying. These allegations can destroy careers, relationships, and reputations if not handled properly. Fortunately, skilled defense attorneys can employ proven strategies to protect the rights of the accused and mount an aggressive defense against such charges.

If you or a loved one are facing accusations like child pornography, indecent exposure, or promoting prostitution in Philadelphia, it’s critical to act quickly. Hiring an experienced sex crimes lawyer should be your first call. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, build a defense strategy, and advise you on the best course of action given the specifics of your case.

Understanding the Charges

Sexual exploitation laws in Pennsylvania are complex. Charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies carrying steep penalties. Prosecutors often pursue multiple charges against defendants in these cases to increase the likelihood of conviction. Some of the most common sexual exploitation offenses include:

• Possession of child pornography
• Distribution of child pornography
• Indecent exposure
• Open lewdness
• Prostitution
• Promoting prostitution

Child pornography charges refer to the possession, creation, or distribution of sexually explicit images involving minors. Even viewing or sharing a single illicit image can lead to criminal liability. The stakes are high, as those convicted may face years or even decades behind bars.

Indecent exposure and open lewdness laws prohibit exposing one’s genitals in public in a way that offends others. This covers everything from public urination to masturbation to flashing. While usually charged as misdemeanors, penalties can be harsher if the act occurs near a school or involves images of children.

Prostitution and promoting prostitution bans exchanging sex for money or other compensation. Promoting prostitution involves facilitating acts of prostitution in any way, such as operating a brothel, arranging meetings between sex workers and clients, or advertising sexual services. These crimes often lead to additional charges like money laundering, racketeering, and conspiracy.

Common Defenses in Philadelphia Sexual Exploitation Cases

Some of the most effective defenses against sexual exploitation charges include:

Lack of Criminal Intent

Many sexual exploitation crimes require prosecutors to prove you acted intentionally or knowingly. Evidence showing you did not mean to break the law could rebut this. For example, you may not have known the person you photographed was a minor. Or you inadvertently viewed an illicit image sent by someone else.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when police coerce you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have. An undercover officer posing as an underage girl convincing you to send explicit photos could potentially constitute entrapment. This defense argues you lacked criminal intent before being entrapped.

Misidentification

Eyewitness misidentification is a common cause of wrongful convictions. If witnesses incorrectly identify you as the perpetrator, this defense asserts police arrested the wrong person. Your attorney can highlight flaws in identification procedures and present alibis placing you elsewhere.

Unlawful Search and Seizure

The Fourth Amendment requires police obtain a warrant supported by probable cause before searching property or seizing evidence. Violations of your search and seizure rights may lead to critical evidence being excluded. If the remaining evidence is insufficient, charges could get dismissed as a result.

False Accusations

Unfortunately, false allegations of sexual exploitation do occur. Motivations range from revenge to mental illness to concealing other behavior. Skilled cross-examination of the accuser can expose inconsistencies and ulterior motives behind false claims.