Changes to penalties for sex crimes requested at state level

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 17-Feb-2015

Dallas area residents who are arrested for criminal activity have many challenges to face. Every person is guaranteed the right to a proper defense. However, public opinion and frequently changing laws can make this a difficult road, especially if the charges pertain to child sex crimes or other sex offenses.

An effort to change laws and criminal penalties for specific sex crimes is in the works currently via the state capitol. The laws and crimes in this situation involve sex trafficking, possession of child pornography and other related allegations. According to a report, Texas has one of the highest rates of sex trafficking in the country with an estimated 20 percent of such victims being in Texas. In some cases, these sex traffic victims are children. A story gives details of one woman who alleges that her mother sold her into sex slavery in exchange for drugs at the age of 13.

Supporters of the changes to the law suggest that victims should not be treated like criminals but rather be recognized as victims. Additionally, they are calling for stiffer penalties for the people involved in creating the sexual slave situations. Specific requests include harsher consequences for anyone convicted of multiple offenses involving child pornography. Also requested is the upgrade of a charge to a felony for any person found to have solicited sex on at least three different occasions.

Anyone who has been the victim of false accusations whether involving sexual misconduct or some other situation understands how difficult it can be to know where to turn for help. Contacting an experienced attorney may be one option worth consideration at these times.

Source: DFW.CBSLocal.com, "North Texas Sex Slave Survivor Steps Out Of Shadows For Interview," February 10, 2015