Buting ,Williams & Stilling ,S.C. | A Criminal Defense Law Firm

Call Today for a FREE Consultation

262-923-8761

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT

Man charged with Internet sex crime in Waukesha County

On Behalf of | Jul 9, 2012 | Internet Crimes

While a conviction for any crime has consequences, being convicted of a sex crime can carry some of the toughest penalties. Besides the legal repercussions that come with sex crime allegations, the personal reputation of the accused individual is also at stake. It is true that every person who is accused of a crime is innocent unless or until proven otherwise, but people accused of sex crimes are often considered guilty even before their trial begins.

A 33-year-old Sussex man is currently facing such charges, as he was recently arrested and charged with use of a computer to facilitate a child sex crime.

On June 29, a Waukesha County sheriff’s deputy posed as a 14-year-old girl in an Internet chat room. According to the criminal complaint, the suspect began to chat with the deputy. Authorities claim the suspect made the first contact, but that remains to be proven. The complaint also alleged that the suspect discussed his drinking habits and made sexual references.

The two evidently ended their conversation for a period of time, but started it up again later the same day. Again, the suspect supposedly talked about sex to the undercover deputy and later agreed to meet at a park in Waukesha. Unknown to the suspect, a trap was being set. An officer working with the sheriff’s department was waiting for the suspect in the vicinity of the park. The officer claims he saw the man sitting in his truck at the confirmed time and place.

Authorities also maintained that the suspect tried to leave once he realized that an officer was watching him. After being approached by police, the man apparently admitted to taking part in an online chat session.

Unlawful use of a computer to facilitate a sex crime is a serious charge. If convicted, the suspect could be sentenced to a maximum of 40 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.

Society tends to condone the harsh treatment of individuals who are accused of sex crimes, but these individuals are also some of the most wrongfully convicted. In such a case, confessing without the presence of an attorney is never a good idea. But if it was coerced in any way, the confession cannot be used against the defendant in a court of law.

Source: Sussex Patch, “Sussex Man Caught in Internet Sex Sting,” Joe Petrie, June 28, 2012

Archives

FindLaw Network

“I just want to say thank you for the outstanding work you have done for him and let you know how much we appreciate the time and attention you gave to his case. We are obviously overjoyed by today’s dismissal!” (Child pornography case dismissed after motion to suppress was granted)”

“After having had time to exhale, we thank each one of you and all the others who contributed to the exemplary Supreme Court presentation. We are proud of your efforts on our behalf and, equally important, on behalf of the many present and future defendants statewide.” (Client’s comment after Supreme Court oral argument)

“Thank you. Thank you. I am so pleased to hear that we won. It doesn’t seem that it was even a close call. I appreciate your efforts.” (Oconto County defendant after Buting, Williams & Stilling got his prison sentence overturned in the court of appeals) ”

“Your time and advice was appreciated more than words can express at a time when we really needed someone to guide us.” (Client)

“The outcome was amazing, one unavailable even under identical circumstances in probably 98 percent of federal courtrooms around the country. Separate and apart from the outcome, though, I am supremely impressed by your efforts on your client’s behalf. Your comments in support of the requested sentence were perfect in tone and, having now reviewed the extensive sentencing memorandum you filed, your work in that regard was exemplary as well. Your client was certainly fortunate to have you as his attorney.” (Local federal court attorney present at a sentencing)

“I can’t thank you enough, not only for all of the tireless work that you and your staff put into my case, but for telling me what I needed to hear, at a time when I absolutely had to hear it. I consider myself blessed for everything turning out the way it did, especially since I blindly picked you out of a phone book! You helped me, my family and friends in many more ways than the money ever could.” (Child pornography client)

“I think you will find that in any circles where Kathy’s name is raised, people will always respond positively and identify her as an extremely hardworking, knowledgeable and ethical lawyer who is timely and effective with any endeavor she takes on. These circles would include colleagues, friends, prosecutors, judges, professors and others who have crossed paths with Kathy. They would also include the many lawyers like me who have referred numerous cases to Kathy, invariably with positive feedback from the clients regarding her knowledge of their case, empathy, professionalism and fair-mindedness in addressing their concerns.” (Fellow attorney)

“Thank you for giving [our son] back to us. Wonderful work!” (Family of client accused of armed robbery after charges were dismissed)

“Yes, His perfect time and perfect place, you were a part of this plan. I almost didn’t hire you, but I took a step of faith trusting Him and look what happened? Praise God. Our Lord put you in your vocation for a reason, continue to help those He brings your way. May He bless you in ALL you do!” (Client who was wrongfully convicted of sexual assault in a northwestern Wisconsin county. He was released from prison after attorneys got his conviction reversed.)

“I really cannot thank you enough for your past help. You really know your stuff. It is actually funny when I think about my other past attorney’s knowledge and then when I talk with you. It’s like night and day. You’re like a walking book of knowledge with a purpose-driven life. Thanks.” (Brown County client of attorney Buting)

“A year later and I still believe your defense is the single best example of lawyering I have ever seen.” (Television reporter commenting on attorney Buting’s defense of Steven Avery)

“You have a certain brilliance that makes me sure that when you talk, it is good information and I am in good hands. You tell it to me like it is even when the things you say are not always the things that I would like to hear. You keep it REAL!!!” (Brown County client)

“Thank you, thank you, thank you! I feel like this was one of the biggest blessings that happened in my life. I put this along with my children being born healthy and when I survived that horrific shooting. I appreciate everything you have done for me. I couldn’t ask for better lawyers. I want to say thank you to everybody at your firm. I owe you more than the fee you so rightfully deserve. … You gave me back hope. Thank you, man! Out of my 36 years … I have never seen such kindness before. I don’t know what I did to deserve this; I’m very thankful nonetheless. Thank you for giving me hope again. Thank you for your generosity. There are still some really good people around.” (Federal criminal appeal client)

“There is no other attorney I’ve ever even heard of I’d rather have as chief counsel and leader of my defense/appeals than Jerome Buting. You’re the best. Period.” (Dane County client)

“Your advice and counsel were greatly appreciated. We appreciate you taking the time on your Sunday and evenings to help us. We are SO happy about the results! Thanks again.” (Waukesha County client)

“Thank you again … for everything. Five and one-half years of commitment, so many ups and downs and an outcome like that. You did a GREAT job.” (Waukesha County felony drug offense client)