Accusations of sexual assault can be devastating for those accused. Individuals facing these charges can face years in prison if convicted, especially if they have been accused of more than one count of the crime. Not only could an individual be facing prison time, but because of the way society perceives those accused or convicted of sex offenses, the accusations could also affect future employment prospects and numerous other aspects of their lives.
This was made clear in Wisconsin recently, where an 18-year-old high school football player was arrested and accused of sexually assaulting multiple females.
The teenager is facing multiple charges for sexual assault, including second-degree sexual assault and attempted sexual assault. Police have said that the suspect and the girls knew each other, and at least one of the incidents took place on school property. Police suspect there may have been other victims. Those individuals are being interviewed by detectives. The Madison Metropolitan School District has said they will be sending a letter home to parents to inform them of the incidents.
Sexual assault accusations are taken very seriously by Wisconsin authorities. A conviction can result in a lengthy jail sentence even for a first offense. No matter whether the charges brought against the teenager are valid, his life will likely be affected both now and in the future.
However, not everyone who is accused of committing a sex-related crime is guilty. There may be another explanation. Experienced Wisconsin attorneys know that strong defenses can be built to challenge sex-related charges.
Source: Channel3000, “Fitchburg Police Arrest Teen In Sex Assault Investigation,” 24 May 2011