Maryland Federal Sex Crimes Lawyer
State and federal courts aggressively prosecute interstate sex crimes, especially those that involve children. This aggressive prosecution is mostly due to a desire to protect vulnerable people as well as provide justice for the victims of these types of crimes. It is also an attempt to reduce or eliminate the problems created by increased national and international human trafficking. These offenses are all classified by state and federal courts as felonies. If you are facing federal charges, make sure to look for and consult with an experienced Maryland federal sex crimes lawyer who is admitted to practice in federal court. Here is more information on Maryland federal charges in state court.
The Value of a Maryland Federal Sex Crime Lawyer
Undercover law enforcement agents conduct numerous sting operations in attempts to capture federal sex offenders. Unfortunately, these sting operations also snag individuals who did not intend to break any laws. In Maryland, the person has very little leeway in battling federal charges if caught in one of these operations. If you are facing a federal sex crimes charge, the first step in limiting the damage to your future is contacting a Maryland federal sex crimes lawyer. Your attorney will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and will explore every possible legal avenue for your defense. Call today for a free consultation.
What Constitutes a Federal Sex Offense?
Some difference between federal and state sex offenses include the location of the crime and the way the crime is punished. The federal court typically conducts the trial proceedings whenever the victim has been transported across state lines or international borders. The federal court will also prosecute cases if the defendant is accused of breaking any of the following laws that have been enacted by Congress.
The Congressionally-enacted laws regarding sex crimes can be found in Title 18 of the U.S. Penal Code. As a Maryland federal sex crimes lawyer can tell you, these criminal acts include:
Sexual Abuse
Chapter 109 (Sections 2241-2247) Sexual abuse, aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor or ward, abusive sexual contact, and sexual abuse resulting in death are considered violations of state and federal laws. The punishment for crimes covered in this chapter ranges from a fine and one year in prison to a life sentence or the death penalty, depending on which section is violated and if the defendant is a repeat offender.
Sexual Exploitation and Other Abuse of Children
Chapter 110 (Sections 2251-2260) It is illegal to sexually exploit children, sell or buy children, engage in certain activities related to material involving sexual exploitation of minors or that constitutes child pornography. Production of sexually explicit depiction of a minor for importation into the U.S. and using misleading domain names on the internet also violate the federal penal code. The penalty for first offense under this chapter ranges from 15 to 30 years for the first offense. The punishment increases in severity for every offense, with the third conviction resulting in a minimum prison term of thirty-five years. A death occurring during the commitment of the crime results in a life term or death penalty.
Transportation for Illegal Sexual Activity and Related Crimes
Chapter 117 (Sections 2421-2427) These violations include transportation, coercion and enticement with the intent to conduct illegal sexual activities and related crimes. The transportation of minors for sexual activities and related crimes as well as the use of interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor are also violations. Punishment for the crimes covered in this chapter ranges from a fine and/or five to 30 years in prison.
Obscenity
Chapter 71 (Sections 1460-1470) Possession, production, mailing, importing, transporting, selling, distribution of or transferring any type of obscene material that depicts, encourages or results in the sexual abuse or exploitation of minors violates federal penal code. Any possession of obscene matter on federal property with the intent to sell and distribution of obscene material by cable or subscription television also violates the code. These acts also violate the Maryland state penal code. The penalties for crimes in this chapter range from two to 10 years in prison, with a fine. In some instances, repeat offenders may have an additional 10 years of imprisonment added on for each prior offense.
Consequences of Federal Sex Crime Convictions
Other consequences of a conviction for a federal sex offense may include probation or parole, mandatory medical treatment, and mandatory sex offender registration. Conviction of a sex offense destroys an individual’s reputation and personal relationships. The individual may have restrictions on places he or she can live and work, as well as types of employment he or she may have. Maintenance of any type of normal lifestyle becomes practically impossible.
A Maryland Federal Sex Crime Lawyer Can Help
Federal sex crimes are serious. If you are being investigated or charged with a federal sex crime, take steps to protect yourself now and down the line. Consult with an experienced Maryland federal sex crimes lawyer who has handled serious felonies in federal court. Call today to schedule a no-cost case evaluation and to discuss your options.