Cleveland Online Sex Crimes Lawyer

What Prosecutors Must Prove

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove each required element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

Depending on the charge, this may include proof that:

• The accused knowingly sent or possessed prohibited material
• The accused believed or knew the other party was a minor
• The communication was for the purpose of sexual activity
• The material involved an actual minor where required by law
• The accused had control over the device or account in question

In digital cases, identifying who actually accessed or controlled a device is often a critical issue. Mere ownership of a phone or computer does not automatically establish guilt.

The burden remains on the state at all times.

Related Charges We Frequently Defend

Online sex crime investigations often lead to related allegations, including:

• Importuning
• Pandering obscenity involving a minor
• Illegal use of a minor in nudity oriented material
• Disseminating harmful material to a minor
• Solicitation and prostitution related offenses
• Sex trafficking allegations
• Failure to register as a sex offender

When multiple counts are involved, a coordinated defense strategy is essential.

‍