Individuals commonly make a serious mistake when confronted by the police or the Texas DFPS (Department of Family and Protective Services) about a child sex crime. These individuals do often do not take the matter seriously or think that the allegations are credible, so he or she will freely discuss the allegations with the police or the DFPS.
A child sex crime conviction will significantly affect your life. You face a possible lengthy jail time and the lifelong stigma of being a sexual predator. Convicted felons cannot vote, cannot possess firearms, and have difficulty finding employment. Your name will forever appear on the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry as a child sexual predator.
The reality is that law enforcement and the DFPS take child sexual abuse allegations seriously, even if you do not. They will use deception or anything else necessary to provoke the accused to make an incriminating statement that will inhibit the abused from defending himself in court. No matter how absurd the individual believes the abuse claims are, it is imperative that the individual speak to a lawyer to ensure that his or her rights are protected.
Are the Police on Your Side?
The police tend to believe the accuser without doing a thorough fact check. They may seem friendly and try to compel you to “admit” your wrongdoing so they can get you help. You need not “admit” anything to the police; rather, you need to protect your rights. Do not assume that the police are on your side; instead of speaking with the police, speak with your lawyer.
Polygraph Test
If you are facing a sex crime allegation, you will face harsh public criticism. The prosecutor will be overzealous to convict you and public opinion is against you. Most people are eager to believe that you committed the crime. Because everyone wants you behind bars, you may feel compelled to do whatever you can to clear your name.
In Texas, it is common for law enforcement to request of a person under investigation for a child sex crime to take a polygraph test (“lie detector test”). Unless advised by your lawyer, you should not take this test. While it is understandable that you want to clear your name and feel that undergoing a polygraph test will help, you should still avoid it. Generally, polygraph test results are inadmissible in court. As a result, if you fail the test then the prosecutor will think you are guilty and will be more zealous to prosecute you; if you pass the test it is unlikely that a jury will see those positive results. Effectively, it is a no-win situation. Consequently, avoid this test unless your lawyer advises otherwise.
If you have been accused of a child sex crime, know your rights. You are innocent until proven guilty, even if public opinion is against you. To withstand the onslaught against you, contact the law office of Christopher Abel, an experienced criminal defense attorney. Chris will help you navigate the dark world of being accused of a serious crime.