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Being investigated for a sex offense can be an intimidating situation. The investigation can impact your life in many ways even if you haven’t been formally charged. This process can impact your reputation, career, and your social life. When you initially discover that you’re being investigated for a sexual crime it can be difficult to figure out how to handle the situation and what you should. There are many common mistakes that people make when they are being investigated for sex offenses. Read more below to learn what those mistakes are and how to avoid them.

If you are being investigated or have already been charged with a sex crime, you need someone on your side who can help you through the criminal justice process. Immediately contact a Fresno sex crimes lawyer at Mike McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer. Contact us today at (559) 443-7442 to schedule a free and confidential consultation of your case.

Things You Should Never Do If You’re Being Investigated

Any type of investigation can be stressful, especially if you are being investigated for a sex crime. In an attempt to prove your innocence, you may want to work with the police during their investigation. However, it is important to remember that law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys, and investigators are not on your side. Here are some things you should never do if you’re being investigated for a sex offense:

Never consent to a search.
If the police have enough evidence to believe that there is proof of a crime (in your house, on your person, or in your car) they can conduct a search without a warrant. On the other hand, if they do not have enough evidence they will ask you for permission to search your home, car, or body. Even if you want to comply to prove your innocence, you should never consent to a search when asked for permission. In this case, the authorities will have to obtain a warrant to conduct their search. If the authorities have a warrant, you must let them conduct a search.

Never admit to possession of suspicious items.
If the police find evidence of a crime on you, in your home or car, or near you, they may ask if it belongs to you. Never admit that an item is yours. In fact, before answering any questions posed by investigators or the police you should always ask to speak with an attorney. Your sex crimes lawyer should always be with you when law enforcement questions or speaks with you.

Never make statements regarding your whereabouts.
The police may ask you where you were at a specific time on a particular day. They are not trying to eliminate you as a suspect. In actuality, they are trying to build a case against you. It is extremely important to never answer their questions without your lawyer present. Even if you are trying to prove your innocence you may say something that will be incriminating.

Never tell the police that you know another person involved in a crime.
During an investigation, the police may ask you about other people who may have been involved in a crime. They may want to know about your relationship with those individuals and what information you know about them. A prosecuting attorney may even say that they will help you avoid conviction or reduce your charges if you talk to them about those individuals. Although this may sound like a good idea it is not. You should never talk about others who may have been involved in a crime unless you have spoken with an attorney about your situation.

It is your right to consult with a lawyer before you speak with police or answer any questions from investigators. In addition, you should never meet with a prosecuting attorney alone. Law enforcement, prosecutors, and investigators are ultimately trying to build a case against you and find evidence that you committed a crime.

Contact a Sex Crimes Lawyer Right Away If You Are Being Investigated

A criminal investigation can take a significant amount of time. You shouldn’t endure the process alone. Mike McKneely, Criminal Defense Attorney can help you. We have worked with clients who have faced serious charges. We are prepared to help fight for an optimal outcome in your case. Call us today at (559) 443-7442, or reach out online to schedule a free case evaluation.