Indecency with a Child Defense
Indecency with a Child :: The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp
In Texas, the crime of indecency with a child can cover several different acts and does not have to involve touching. Exposing oneself can also result in charges of indecency with a child. Those who expose a child’s private areas for sexual gratification are also subject to being charged with this crime. Indecency with a child is considered a felony, with punishment being based upon the severity of the crime. Some of the punishments for this offense include:
If crime consists of exposure:
- Two to ten years in the state penitentiary
- Fine of up to $10,000
- Mandatory sex offender registry upon release
If the crime consists of touching:
- Two to twenty years in prison
- Lifetime sex offender registry
- Fine of up to $10,000
Consequences beyond Jail Time
An offender may continue to pay for the crime of indecency with a child long after serving his debt to society. Since it is considered a sex crime, an offender may find that doors of opportunity are closed when it comes to finding employment or housing. Others may be fearful of starting relationships with that individual because of his felony offense. Being found guilty of the offense of indecency with a child can stain a person’s reputation for the rest of his life.
A few Affirmative Defenses
People who have been charged with the crime of indecency with a child should know that there are affirmative defenses that can help mitigate the sentence if they should be found guilty. The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp is familiar with these affirmative defenses, which may include:
- The lack of threats made against the victim
- No prior requirement to register as a sex offender
- No prior criminal history by the defendant
- The victim was less than three years younger than the defendant and was a member of the opposite sex
Contact The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp
There’s no time to wait when you have been charged with the crime of indecency with a child. You need an aggressive attorney who will see to it that your rights are not violated by the State of Texas. Attorney Matthew Sharp is criminal defense lawyer who believe in the importance of quality representation for everyone no matter what their circumstances are.
For a free case consultation contact The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp: 713-868-6100.