Two Somerset County Juveniles May Have to Register as Sex Offenders
In 2008, two 14-year-old teenagers in Somerset County were charged after they held down a couple of 12-year-old boys and placed their bare buttocks on the boys’ faces. After years of investigations and appeals, the two teens may have to register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives. According to The Beaver County Times, the recent ruling by an appeals court means that boys made sexual contact for the purpose of humiliation.
Although the case may have involved two young individuals who made an unfortunate choice that may be considered little more than inappropriate horseplay, each of these boys may face a lifetime label as a sex offender. Now that the case is back in a lower court, one of the boys is reconsidering his guilty plea and a review is underway to determine if the other boy had adequate legal representation.
It doesn't matter if you are a juvenile or adult. All sexual contact cases must be taken seriously. Registration as a sex offender under Megan's Law can have negative consequences for individuals both socially and professionally. Under Megan's Law, a convicted sex offender must register with the local authorities and anyone can have access to information from their photographs to their home address and their criminal record. Imagine trying to seek a job as an adult when your criminal record shows that you are a sex offender. There are jobs available for individuals who are trying to fix their past mistakes but a number of employers will not even consider someone with any criminal record, let alone a sex offense.
The experienced sex crime defense lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein understand the serious consequences our clients face in the aftermath of a sex crime charge. Our skilled attorneys have a proven track record of having penalties reduced, records sealed, and charges dismissed. Please call our law offices today at 609-240-0040 to discuss your case.
