Sex Crimes: Sex Offender Registration

A sex crime refers to unwanted and uninvited sexual contact; however, sex crimes encompass a wide range of criminal acts. A person can be convicted of "indecent exposure" in California, which is considered a sex crime. This can simply entail urinating in public, engaging in sexual acts in a public place, or other forms of public nudity. In no way does a woman exposing her breasts for breastfeeding entail a criminal offense.

Sex crimes include: rape, spousal rape, sexual assault, indecent exposure, internet crimes, prostitution, child molestation, sodomy, sexual battery and more. How a person is penalized will depend upon the age of the victim, their criminal record and the nature of the crime.

One of the most serious aspects of a sex crime conviction involves sex offender registration. The sex offender registry is a national registry in which the offender must register no matter where they live. Failure to update one's address or failing to notify law enforcement when you move can result in serious criminal consequences including years behind bars.

As a registered sex offender, you are required to provide your headshot, your home address and what you were convicted for. This information is made public, meaning your future employers, you landlord, your neighbors and your friends can have access to your personal information. As a registered sex offender, you could have restrictions as to where you live and how close you can come to a school or park. If nothing less, it's virtually impossible to escape the social stigma associated with being a registered sex offender and this stigma will haunt you for the rest of your life.

Yes, sex offenses are serious in nature; however, it is not uncommon for the alleged abuser to the victim of lies and deceit. This is especially common in the case of a bitter divorce or heated child custody battle. Sadly, as in most sex crime cases, there are often no witnesses to the crime in question and it comes down to whether or not the judge or jury believes your side of the story. An ultimate conviction can have serious, life-altering consequences that are extremely devastating if you have any children. Meaning, a conviction can force you to move out of your home, and it can limit your access to your own children.

If you are being accused of a sex crime, you owe it to yourself to hire legal representation. Don't assume the truth will set you free. Even children can be very convincing liars if they are out to harm you for some reason or another. It will take a skilled, meticulous and aggressive lawyer to question every aspect of the evidence and witness testimony.

The Law Office of Robert M. Helfend has been serving the residents of Los Angeles since 1984. Attorney Helfend represents clients in all types of criminal charges including: sex crimes, fraud, domestic violence, child pornography, DUI, drug crimes, fraud, grand theft, burglary, federal crimes, medical marijuana and murder. He can inform his clients about three strikes law, any possible search and seizure violations, and he can assist clients in national federal crime defense. Whether your case is large or small, he has the knowledge and experience to defend clients in both the state and federal courts. Contact a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer from the firm by calling them at (800) 834-6434.

An Introduction To Cyber-Crime

Computer crime refers to criminal activity involving a computer. The computer may be used in the commission of a crime or it may be the target. Net-crime refers to criminal use of the Internet. Cyber-crimes are essentially a combination of these two elements and can be best defined as "Offences that are committed against individuals or groups of individuals with a criminal motive to intentionally harm the reputation of the victim or cause physical or mental harm to the victim directly or indirectly using modern telecommunication networks such as the Internet (Chat rooms, emails, notice boards and groups) and mobile phones (SMS/MMS)". [1]

In its most simple form, cyber-crime can be defined as any illegal activity that uses a computer as its primary means of function. The U.S. Department of Justice broadens this definition to include any illegal activity that uses a computer for the storage of evidence. The term 'cyber-crime' can refer to offenses including criminal activity against data, infringement of content and copyright, fraud, unauthorized access, child pornography and cyber-stalking.

The United Nations Manual on the Prevention and Control of Computer Related Crime includes fraud, forgery and unauthorized access in its definition of cyber-crime. Cyber-crime in effect covers a wide range of attacks on individuals and organisations alike. These crimes may include anything from an individual's emotional or financial state to a nation's security.

There are two main categories that define the make up of cyber-crimes. Firstly those that target computer networks or devices such as viruses, malware, or denial of service attacks. The second category relate to crimes that are facilitated by computer networks or devices like cyber-stalking, fraud, identity-theft, extortion, phishing (spam) and theft of classified information.

In order to highlight the scale of cyber-crime globally, the Norton Cyber-crime Report 2011 revealed 431 million adults in 24 countries had been victims' of cyber-crime in that year. Computer based crime is escalating at an alarming rate. In the report Norton calculated the financial cost of global cyber-crime at $388 billion. This is more than the combined international market for marijuana, heroin and cocaine, estimated at $288 billion. Assuming its current growth rate continues, cyber-crime will soon surpass the entire global drug trafficking market that is estimated to be worth $411 billion annually.

Cyber-crimes have expanded to include activities that cross international borders and can now be considered a global epidemic. The international legal system ensures cyber criminals are held accountable through the International Criminal Court. Law enforcement agencies are faced with unique challenges and the anonymity of the Internet only complicates the issues. There are problems with gathering evidence, cross-jurisdictional issues and miscommunication related to reporting.

It is widely known that victims of Internet crimes are often reluctant to report an offence to authorities. In some cases the individual or organization may not even be aware a crime has been committed. Even though facilities for reporting incidents of cyber-crime have improved in recent years many victims remain reluctant due essentially to embarrassment.

International cooperation is essential if an effective response is to be found against global cyber-crime. No nation can expect to effectively combat the issue alone. Many computer based crimes are initiated 'off-shore' and this presents enormous challenges to any nations law enforcement agencies. It is critical that agencies from around the world formulate actionable plans to detect, follow, arrest and prosecute cyber criminals.

For example, in the past two years Australia has adopted the National Criminal Intelligence Fusion Capability, a key element of the Commonwealth Organized Crime Strategic Framework (COCSF). This body brings together expertise, data and technology across a range of government and law enforcement agencies and enables international collaboration.

The problem of cyber-crime seems almost immeasurable in size. Looking at recent trends and advances in mobile technology and cloud computing we realize it is an ever-evolving and rapidly changing dynamic. There is growing evidence globally of newly formed partnerships between government and industry aimed at prevention. These partnerships create opportunities to share information and bolster law enforcement response to organized Internet-based crime.

This sharing of information creates concerns in its self. It is an extremely complex and sensitive issue. A balance must be found in efficiently maximizing distribution of information and protecting it from the organized cyber-criminal element.

Cyber-crime covers such a broad scope of criminal enterprise. The examples mentioned above are only a few of the thousands of variants of illegal activities commonly classed as cyber-crimes. Computers and the Internet have improved our lives in many ways, unfortunately criminals now make use of these technologies to the detriment of society.

[1] Halder, D., & Jaishankar, K. (2011) Cyber crime and the Victimization of Women: Laws, Rights and Regulations. Hershey PA, USA: IGI Global. ISBN: 978-1-60960-830-9

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What to Report to the Police in the Event of a Violent Crime

With the crime rate in every major city in the United States on the rise, not only do we need to be physically ready, we also need to be mentally prepared in case we come face to face with a criminal. Violent crimes such as, rape, sexual assault, aggravated assault, armed robbery, home invasion and carjacking are all on the rise, at alarming rate. Though, we all hope and pray not to be victims of any of these violent crimes, nonetheless, we need to know how to gather information about the crime and the perpetrator in case we become victims.

Naturally, most of us scream, cry or freeze in a crisis situation, but we need to be very observant in these situations. Because, being able to gather vital information about the criminal and the crime will help you and the police apprehend the perpetrator. One of the most important keys to solving a crime is being able to know what to report to the police in the event of a violent crime.

Therefore, if you are being attacked or you witness someone being attacked violently, pay close attention to the physical appearance of the attacker. One of the first things you need to determine is the race of the perpetrator. Are they white, black or Hispanic? Observe physical features like the height and built. How tall are they? Are they small, medium or large framed? Focus on their face, the shape and color of the eyes, the color of the hair, the shape of the nose and the mouth and a good estimate of the shoe size. In addition, make a mental note of their clothing, were they wearing a T-shirt, a dress shirt or hooded sweater. What kind of pants were they wearing. Are they jeans, dress pants or sweat pants? Also, make sure you can accurately describe the shoes. Were they sneakers, boots or dress shoes? And if they were wearing a hat what type is it. Is it a baseball cap, skull cap or a fedora? Now, if they fled the scene in a car, determine the make and model, the color and if possible the tag number.

In conclusion, since most of these criminals already have lengthy criminal history, it is very important to make some of these observations in the event of a violent crime. Because these observations can help you identify the perpetrator in a police mug shot file or line-up. They can also help you take criminal off the streets and put then behind bars, where they belong.

Michael Imana is a freelance writer. His articles focuses mainly on personal, home and business security issues. He has published several ebooks on self-defense and home security products. He helped started Prosafety Systems, an internet-based company that specializes in providing the very latest in personal, home and business security products. He is dedicated to helping people protect themselves, their homes and their businesses.

http://www.myprosafety.com

[http://www.myprospy.com]

Defense Against Sex Crime Allegations

Sex crimes cover a broad spectrum of sex-related offenses. In essence, they involve non-consensual sexual contact. They can include any unwanted touching of the sexual organs, molestation, sexual assault (rape) or sexual battery.

Sex crimes also include prostitution and solicitation of prostitution even if it was entirely consensual. Law enforcement agencies set up entire "stings" to catch prostitutes, pimps and Johns in the act. They also place ads on public forums such as Craigslist to track down and convict people who engage in prostitution. If you were accused of committing a sex crime, you have to act fast to protect yourself. If you are convicted you could face jail or prison sentencing, probation or parole, and steep monetary fines. What's worse, the effects that a sex crime conviction might have on your reputation, your personal relationships and your career could be devastating.

For more serious sex crimes such as sexual abuse, sexual battery and sexual assault or rape you will most likely be facing mandatory sex offender registration. This means that you would have to register as a sex offender no matter where you live. What's more, your headshot, conviction and home address would be made public information for all to see.

Escaping the stigma of a registered sex offender is fairly unrealistic. It is more likely that the offense will haunt you wherever you go. Unfortunately, many people who are accused of a sex crime are actually innocent. The challenging part is proving that your description of the events or lack of events is honest and true as opposed to the accusations coming from the alleged victim. Being innocent isn't always enough when the accuser delivers a convincing theatrical display to the prosecution and the judge.

It is not uncommon for pubescent teens or young girls and boys to falsely accuse their parent of sexual abuse or molestation. Unfortunately, minors can make false accusations in order to please the other parent or out of pure anger or contempt for their parents. Although sexual offenses against a minor are extremely serious, whether they are founded on fact or not, law enforcement must take the necessary precautions and investigate any allegations. However, this can put the wrongfully accused in a very uncomfortable situation in the meantime, and law enforcement might not be so quick to offer you sympathy during such investigations.

Another common scenario where false allegations are made involves bitter divorces or child custody battles. Sometimes an angry or vindictive mother will falsely accuse her husband of child molestation or rape in order to gain custody of the couple's children during a volatile divorce.

Since there are many situations in which no witnesses are around at the time of the allegation, it is essential that you retain an experienced criminal defense attorney if you have been convicted of a sex crime. Being convicted could destroy your reputation, and it might turn a lot of people against you. Sex crime allegations are also extremely embarrassing because they attack your very core. If you have been accused of a sex crime, a criminal defense attorney can handle your case in a discreet and private manner. When your reputation and freedom are on the line, you can't afford to hire a weak defense attorney who might make costly mistakes on your case. Please take a moment to contact a criminal defense attorney to discuss your case. You deserve to have a professional on your side during this difficult time.

The Colorado Springs legal team at the Law Office of Michael Moran is prepared to fight on your behalf. Their firm has extensive experience in handling a variety of criminal charges including: sex crimes, drug crimes, traffic offenses, probation violations and more. They understand how good people can make mistakes or make an error in judgment, while other times innocent people are wrongfully accused. Either way, they are not here to judge you regardless of your charges. Attorneys at the firm will offer sound advice that can give you a clear idea of what to expect in the legal system, along with the best ways to prepare your defense. They will tailor a unique strategy to suit your needs so you have the best chances of fighting the charges against you. You are urged to contact a Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney at (877) 500-7309 for a free consultation.

Defense for Internet Crimes Against Children

There are harsh penalties for internet crimes against children. Any crime involving a minor will be more harshly punished than the same crime committed against an adult. Because these crimes are treated so severely, most people hire representation to defend them against these charges. It is statistically proven that a defense attorney can increase the chances of a lesser sentence. This can reduce the jail time and fines associated with these crimes against children.

Most charges associated with crimes against children are sexual. Child pornography or the soliciting of sex are the most common reasons for these accusations. A defense attorney will most likely conduct an investigation into the circumstances of the arrest and the evidence of the crime. Since these crimes occur over the internet, there can be hard evidence proving guilt. On the flip side, a computer may not contain any information at all and the evidence may all be given by word of mouth. If there are holes in testimony or a lack of solid evidence, charges may be overturned. Other tactics a defense lawyer may use to defend a person include:

Unlawful arrest - Officers of the law are responsible for following correct procedure during an arrest. If they do not, the accused individual may have his or her case thrown out.
Mental illness - Many people commit crimes due to a mental health condition that they cannot control.
First charge - Those who have a clean record may be able to use this information to secure a lesser charge.
Innocence - In many cases, individuals are wrongly accused, and an experienced attorney can show this.

To learn more about internet crime defense, visit the website of the San Jose criminal attorneys at the Jensen Law Office today.

James Witherspoon

Self Defense and Community Crime Rates

We are all aware that the United States has a serious crime problem. Most think the way to deal with unbridled crime is to allow the police to deal with this epidemic. Non violent persons had no problem carrying some kind of non lethal self defense products. Others believe that ownership of firearms by law abiding citizens will reduce the violent crime rate. Of course arming citizens does not sit well with Law Enforcement Agencies..They are concerned that this would only aggravate an already bad situation. Just imagine what would happen if two strangers got involved in a physical confrontation and they both were carrying a handgun. We can only imagine that it could easily escalate into a gun fight.

A friend of mine who carries not lethal self defense weapons and lives in a large city with a high crime rate stated. "Every time I leave my apartment, I fear for my life". You may not feel that helpless, but I am sure that the realization that you could become a victim has crossed your mind. My mother frequently commented when she was much younger when there was a murder anywhere in the city the community was shocked and appalled. Murders only occurred on a very small scale, and murderers were viewed as monsters. Today we are so used to hearing of homicides and other violent crimes we have become desensitized. In some major cities murders exceed three hundred a year.

I grew up in Baltimore City, and I was exposed to crime and violence at a very young age. I thought all cities had the same crime problems until I did a stint in the army. Traveling around the country while in the military, I discovered peaceful crime free communities where people actually spoke to you when they walked by. In Baltimore City if a stranger acknowledges you, they usually want something. Self defense and crime were my last concern. After military service, I spent eleven years on the Baltimore City Police Department. I saw more carnage and death as a police officer than I experienced in a year of combat. I finally left the police Department and now live in small town around 60 miles from the city.

I finally moved away from an environment of noise, trash in the streets and in some area rats as big as cats. I live in a quiet clean and friendly community. Although the crime rate is nowhere near the scale of Baltimore City, recently a number of brutal rapes and murders have occurred. I notice especially at night people seem apprehensive and very cautious. Rarely do you see women walking alone or approaching strangers making casual conversations. Several of my friends have obtained weapons for their self defense. There is a lesson for all honest, hard working, law abiding citizens out there. You may have always lived in a low crime rate area, or you may have recently moved to one. Crime is everywhere and self defense should always be your concern.

Jerome Wilkins is a former decorated Baltimore City Police Officer. He is presently a Security Consultant and owner of DefendMax LLC. Visit his self defense web site at and receive a 10% discount on your 1st order by using code fv100 at checkout. You may want to examine some of our best selling stun guns.

Drug Crimes: An Overview

If you or a loved one have been accused of any type of drug crime, it is imperative that you contact a criminal defense attorney for legal aid as soon as possible As drug crimes are on the rise throughout the country, local and state authorities as well as government agencies like the Drug Enforcement Administration are stepping up their fight against this offense. However, in their eagerness to stop this crime, it is not uncommon for people to be falsely accused, falsely convicted, and falsely imprisoned. If this is your case, you need information concerning your situation so that you can make the best decision for you.

Drug possession is the most common drug crime and is exactly what it sounds like: being found to have an illegal substance in your possession. This violates both state and federal laws and can be punished as an infraction (as in marijuana possession in California), a misdemeanor, or a felony (if the amount found was over a certain weight). Drug possession laws also cover the possession of drug paraphernalia. If syringes, pipes, needles, or any piece of equipment used to sell drugs is found, the individual could be prosecuted. Some states have made it legal to use marijuana for medicinal purposes, but confusion can occur as it still violates federal law.

Drug manufacturing and cultivation is a more serious offense and it includes growing or producing an illicit drug. For example, it is not uncommon for regular people to grow the plant cannabis in their homes. With easy access to the growing equipment and the information necessary to grow marijuana, it has been gaining in popularity over the past years throughout the country. Other drugs such as LSD and ecstasy are not so easy to manufacture. These are not grown, but created in a lab through the use of chemicals.

The sale, transportation, importation, and exportation of controlled substances are all part of drug trafficking. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the federal trafficking penalties will differ depending on the type of drug and the amount that was being transported. Penalties could range from heavy penalties to decades in state prison. If you have been accused of any of these drug crimes, it is imperative that you speak with a drug crime defense attorney as soon as possible. You should do everything possible to retain your freedom and stay out of jail.

Greco & Associates is a criminal defense law firm serving clients in Fort Bend, TX and the surrounding areas. They have years of experience in standing up for those who have been accused of drug possession, drug manufacturing, drug trafficking, and many other drug crimes. They understand that not everyone who has been accused of a crime is guilty and so will work tirelessly to get your charges reduced or dropped. By speaking to a Fort Bend drug crime lawyer from their team, you will get the advantage of gaining insight from a former chief prosecutor. To learn more or talk to one of their lawyers, contact a Fort Bend drug attorney from the team today!