Sex Crimes

When someone is accused of committing a crime, it can be embarrassing and stigmatizing. If that alleged crime is sexual in nature, the damage it can do to one’s reputation is even more severe. Unfortunately, with sex crimes comes an assumption that because an accusation was made, the claims must be true. The notion of being innocent until proven guilty (beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law) often falls by the wayside where sex crimes are concerned. We have witnessed the harm these kinds of allegations can cause and will go the extra mile to ensure our clients’ rights are protected if they are accused of committing a sex crime in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

What to Expect if Accused of a Sex Crime in New Mexico

Individuals who find themselves in the unfortunate position of being accused of a sex crime in New Mexico against a child or adult should prepare themselves for the impending legal process. One of the first things to do is to contact an attorney who specializes in sex crimes in New Mexico. Experience matters when it comes to successfully defending against sex crimes. The Albuquerque law firm of Cameron & Russell has a proven track record of helping individuals convicted of sex crimes in New Mexico. Having them on board from the moment an accusation is made can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

There are several steps involved when someone is accused of a sex crime in New Mexico:

An incident report is made to law enforcement, either directly from the alleged victim or a victim’s advocate representing the alleged victim.
Once law enforcement is officially notified of a complaint, they will begin an investigation. They will speak with the alleged victim and any potential witnesses, collect evidence, and interview the alleged perpetrator. It is important to never speak to the police without legal representation. It is common for police to downplay an incident to try to get the alleged perpetrator talking to incriminate themselves. Refuse to answer any questions without an attorney present.
Law enforcement will collect evidence and take witness interviews while investigating the alleged sex crime. If they believe they have enough evidence to justify an arrest warrant, it will be submitted to the prosecutor’s office. It is the job of the prosecutor to decide if a warrant for a suspect’s arrest is issued.

Types of Sex Crimes in New Mexico

Sex crimes are strongly prosecuted in Albuquerque. Law enforcement takes all accusations seriously and will conduct a thorough investigation. New Mexico classifies sex crimes into the following categories.

Criminal Sexual Penetration (Rape) – When a person is accused of forcing themselves sexually on another individual, they can be charged with criminal sexual penetration. Criminal sexual penetration covers the crimes of rape, statutory rape, sex abuse, molestation, and incest.
Stalking – New Mexico law defines stalking as “knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct, without lawful authority, directed at a specific individual.” When the purpose of stalking is to carry out a sexual assault, an individual can be charged with stalking in addition to other sex crimes.
Solicitation is the act of arranging to pay a prostitute or other sex worker for sexual favors. If you make an offer to or hire a sex worker to participate in sexual acts, you can be charged with solicitation. Solicitation is a misdemeanor crime that can carry jail time and fines.
Harassment – Sexual harassment is a crime in New Mexico. Knowingly pursuing and terrorizing another person using sexual language is a prosecutable offense that carries fines and jail time.
Prostitution – This sex crime can land you steep fines and jail time in New Mexico. It is both illegal to sell and buy sex, so whether you are the prostitute or the customer, you can face fourth-degree felony charges in Albuquerque if you are caught in the act. It is important to understand the difference between solicitation and prostitution. While they are both relating to paying for sex, they carry different punishments.

The team at Cameron & Russell is competent and experienced in handling these and other classifications of sex crimes in New Mexico. Reach out today to help preserve your rights if you or someone you love has been accused of committing a sex crime.

Call Cameron & Russell for a Free Case Evaluation

Bill Russell and Marcus Cameron are the faces behind Cameron & Russell. We go the extra mile for our clients to pursue personal injury claims and provide criminal defense. We approach every case with a fresh eye to detail and the determination to represent our clients to the fullest extent the law allows. We passionately defend clients facing criminal charges, and relentlessly seek out fair compensation for personal injury claims. No matter your situation, we promise to tirelessly represent your legal needs.