Bentonville Sex Crime Attorney

Being charged with a sex crime is devastating. In addition to fines and possible jail time, a conviction can lead to a permanently damaged reputation and having to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. As a former Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, I have direct knowledge of how the courts prosecute sex crime cases in Arkansas. When you call me for your free case evaluation, I can tell you more about how your case will proceed should you enlist my services.

I Handle Cases Involving:

• Sexual abuse, assault, or rape
• Solicitation
• Prostitution
• Statutory rape
• Child pornography
• Failure to register as a sex offender

What are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in Arkansas?

The penalties for sex crimes in Arkansas can vary depending on the specific offense and the circumstances of the case, but they can be pretty severe. Some possible penalties for sex crimes in the state include the following:

• Rape: This crime is punishable by 5 to 40 years in prison, and the sentence can be increased to life in prison if the victim is under 14 years of age or if the offender has prior rape convictions.
• Sexual assault: This crime is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, and the sentence can be increased to life in prison if the victim is under 14 years of age or if the offender has prior sexual assault convictions.
• Prostitution: Solicitation of prostitution is a Class A misdemeanor and can result in up to a year in jail. Promoting prostitution is a Class B felony and can result in up to 20 years in prison.
• Online Solicitation of a minor: This crime is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
• Child molestation: This crime is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The sentence can be increased to life in prison if the victim is under 14 years of age or if the offender has prior child molestation convictions.
• Statutory rape: This crime is defined as sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent, 16 years old, in Arkansas. This crime can be charged as a Class Y felony and can result in life in prison.
• Possession of child pornography: This crime is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
• Failure to register as a sex offender: According to Arkansas law, anyone convicted of a sex crime must register as a sex offender. Failure to do so is a separate crime that can result in additional penalties. Failure to register as a sex offender is a Class D felony and is punishable by up to 6 years in prison.

It is worth noting that these crimes carry severe consequences, not only in terms of possible imprisonment but also social stigma and collateral consequences, like being on the sex offender registry. That is why it is essential to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney if facing any of these charges.

Serious Problems Require Effective Solutions

Being accused of or charged with a sex crime is a difficult, overwhelming experience, and I believe everyone deserves compassionate and aggressive legal representation. When you hire my firm, you actually work with me. I am a practicing criminal defense lawyer in Bentonville, and I am committed to providing my clients with the personalized attention they deserve.

Call (479) 777-0640 for a free case evaluation with Cody W. Dowden, Attorney at Law. 
I proudly serve clients throughout Benton County and Northwest Arkansas.