Statutory Rape Defense in Bentonville

Direct Defense for Arkansas Age-Based Sexual Offense Charges

Age-based sexual allegations require a defense grounded in Arkansas’s statutes, the evidence, and the procedures used during the investigation. At Cody W. Dowden, Attorney at Law, I represent people accused of sex crimes in Bentonville and throughout Northwest Arkansas, including sexual assault in the first, second, third, and fourth degrees.

I provide one-on-one representation and explain your legal options in plain terms. When you hire me, you work directly with me rather than being passed to a junior lawyer or paralegal.

Call (479) 777-0640 for a free, confidential case review before making statements or decisions that could affect your defense.

How Arkansas Handles Allegations Called Statutory Rape

Arkansas doesn’t have a criminal offense formally named statutory rape. Depending on the ages involved and the alleged conduct, prosecutors may pursue rape under Ark. Code § 5-14-103(a)(3), second-degree sexual assault under Ark. Code § 5-14-125(a)(3), or fourth-degree sexual assault under Ark. Code § 5-14-127(a)(1).

The rape statute covers sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity with a person under age 14. Other Arkansas age-of-consent charges may depend on:

• The ages of both people and the difference between them
• The type of conduct alleged
• Whether a statutory affirmative defense applies

An affirmative defense is a legally recognized defense that the accused may raise even when the state claims the offense’s basic elements are present.

Experience with Sexual Assault Investigations

I’ve practiced in Arkansas courts for more than 15 years, represented thousands of defendants, and tried hundreds of jury cases. My criminal defense work includes serious felony and sex-crime allegations.

From April 2008 through July 2012, I served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney. During that service, I received Child Advocacy Center training as a forensic interviewer for sexual assault investigations. This structured method is used to obtain and document information from a child while limiting suggestive questioning. That background helps me assess how an allegation was developed, how interviews were conducted, and how the prosecution may approach the evidence.

What to Expect After Police Contact or an Arrest

The process begins with a free, confidential consultation and case review, with no obligation to hire me. I listen to what happened, identify the current stage of the case, and explain the legal issues that may shape the defense.

I can intervene during an investigation before charges are filed. Early involvement allows me to address communications with investigators and begin examining available evidence. The investigation, charging decision, court schedule, and defense options depend on the allegations, evidence, and procedural posture.

If prosecutors file a felony-level rape or higher-degree sexual assault case in Bentonville, it proceeds in Benton County Circuit Court. I remain directly involved in defense planning, court preparation, and communication throughout the case.

Discuss the Allegation in Confidence

A prompt review can clarify which Arkansas statute may apply and what steps are appropriate at the current stage. The consultation is free and confidential, with no obligation to hire me. Requests may also be sent through the contact form.

Call (479) 777-0640 to discuss the allegation and your legal options with me.