Have you been charged with an internet sex crime in Tucson, Arizona? These offenses can carry severe criminal penalties and consequences that extend beyond the sentence itself.
When a defendant is facing allegations involving online communications, digital files, or an undercover investigation, understanding the specific charge is an important first step.
The Tucson sex crimes attorneys at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys have 45 years of combined experience and represent clients facing a range of sex crime allegations.
Contact our offices today at 520-510-0439 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Tucson internet sex crimes attorneys can review the charges against you and provide guidance on what to expect moving forward.
Why Choose Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help if You’re Arrested for an Internet Sex Crime in Tucson, AZ?
Evidence can begin taking shape early in an internet sex crime investigation. Messages, account records, device data, images, and information gathered through undercover operations may all become part of the case.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can support your defense by:
- Conducting a detailed review of the digital evidence and communications used against you
- Filing motions to suppress evidence that was obtained through unlawful means
- Challenging the methods used in law enforcement sting operations when appropriate
- Identifying grounds to challenge or seek dismissal of charges when supported by the facts and law
- Representing you at pretrial hearings and at trial when necessary
The approach to an internet sex crime case in Tucson, AZ, depends on the offense charged and the evidence the prosecution intends to use. Contact our Tucson criminal defense lawyers for a free consultation to discuss the allegations today.
Arizona Laws That Cover Internet Sex Crimes
Arizona has several statutes that address sex-related offenses committed through the internet or electronic communication. Two of the offenses that may arise in these cases are outlined below.
Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
Under A.R.S. § 13-3554, it is illegal to offer or solicit sexual conduct with another person while knowing, or having reason to know, that person is a minor. Importantly, it is not a defense that the other person turned out not to be a minor. If a police officer was posing as a minor during an undercover operation, the charge can still stand.
Luring a minor for sexual exploitation is a Class 3 felony. The applicable sentencing range depends on factors including the alleged minor’s age and the defendant’s criminal history.
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
A.R.S. § 13-3553 covers conduct involving visual depictions of minors engaged in exploitive exhibition or other sexual conduct. The statute prohibits several forms of knowing conduct involving qualifying material, including creating, distributing, receiving, electronically transmitting, and possessing it.
Sexual exploitation of a minor is a Class 2 felony. Cases involving multiple images or files may result in multiple counts, which can substantially increase potential sentencing exposure.
For both offenses, if the alleged victim is under the age of 15, Arizona’s dangerous crimes against children sentencing provisions under A.R.S. § 13-705 can apply.
What Are the Potential Penalties for an Internet Sex Crime in Tucson, AZ?
The penalties for internet sex crimes in Arizona are often severe. Prison sentences can range from several years to decades, depending on the charge, the age of the alleged victim, the defendant’s criminal history, and the applicable sentencing statute.
Certain internet sex crime convictions can also require registration as a sex offender under Arizona law. Registration requirements and other collateral consequences can affect where a person lives, employment opportunities, and other areas of daily life.
Because different internet sex offenses carry different classifications and sentencing rules, the specific statute underlying the charge must be considered before determining the potential penalties.
What Defenses Can I Raise Against Internet Sex Crime Charges?
Despite how serious these charges are, there may be defenses available depending on the allegations and evidence. The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, and the evidence may present factual, constitutional, or technical issues that can be challenged.
Possible issues in an internet sex crime defense include:
- Entrapment: Depending on the circumstances of a sting operation, the defense may examine whether law enforcement conduct satisfies Arizona’s statutory requirements for entrapment.
- Illegal search or seizure: Digital evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment may be subject to a motion to suppress.
- Lack of required knowledge or intent: Some offenses require proof of a particular mental state, and the available evidence may not establish that element.
- Reliability or authenticity of electronic evidence: Questions about who created, sent, received, or controlled digital material may affect how the evidence can be used.
Internet sex crime investigations can depend heavily on electronic evidence. The defenses available depend on the charge, the communications involved, how investigators obtained the evidence, and whether prosecutors can establish each required element. Our Tucson criminal defense lawyers can meticulously analyze the specific circumstances of your case to identify these vulnerabilities and help protect your rights.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Tucson Internet Sex Crimes Attorney
An internet sex crime charge in Tucson, AZ, demands careful attention. Digital evidence can play a significant role in these cases, and the details of an online conversation, device search, or undercover operation may affect how the allegations should be evaluated.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys represents people accused of internet-related sex offenses in Pima County and throughout Southern Arizona. Our team can review the charge, examine the available digital evidence, and determine which legal and factual issues may be relevant to your case.
If you are facing an accusation involving online sexual conduct, schedule a free consultation with a Tucson internet sex crimes attorney to discuss the charge and the evidence being used against you.