Cleveland Defending Against False Sex Crime Allegations Lawyer

What Prosecutors Must Prove

In Ohio sex crime cases, the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. That means the state cannot rely on suspicion, reputation, or assumptions.

While every offense is different, prosecutors often try to prove:

• Sexual conduct or sexual contact occurred
• The act was non-consensual, or the alleged victim was legally unable to consent
• Force, threat, impairment, or coercion existed (when required)
• The accused knowingly committed the act
• The accused is the correct person (identity)

In false allegation cases, the defense often focuses on credibility, lack of corroboration, and the gap between accusation and proof.

Related Charges We Frequently Defend

False allegations can lead to a wide range of serious charges in Ohio, including:

• Sexual assault and rape
• Sexual battery
• Gross sexual imposition
• Sexual imposition
• Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor (statutory rape)
• Importuning
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Child pornography-related charges
• Indecent exposure
• Failure to register as a sex offender

Because sex crime cases often involve multiple charges filed at once, it is important to evaluate the full risk and build a defense strategy that addresses every allegation.

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