Highland Village Sex Crimes Attorney

Sex Crimes Attorney for Those Charged with Federal Sex Trafficking in Highland Village

Facing federal sex trafficking charges can be overwhelming and highly stressful. If you or someone you know in Highland Village is dealing with these charges, it is essential to understand the legal landscape, the potential penalties, and the defense strategies available. There are important federal laws involved when it comes to sex trafficking, including the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), the Mann Act, and the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) statutes. Understanding these laws can help you navigate this challenging time more effectively. To defend yourself against these serious charges, get in touch with a criminal defense lawyer at Bennett & Bennett. With a robust understanding of the law, our legal professionals can fight for your rights and interests no matter how serious the charges are.

What to Know About the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA)

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000 is one of the cornerstones of federal anti-trafficking legislation. It focuses on three key areas: prevention, protection, and prosecution. Other key provisions include:

• Definition of sex trafficking - Under the TVPA, a person can be charged with sex trafficking if they induce a commercial sex act through force, fraud, or coercion. Additionally, any sexual activity involving minors under the age of 18 is considered trafficking, regardless of whether force, fraud, or coercion was involved.
• Potential penalties - The penalties under the TVPA are severe. Defendants found guilty could face life in prison, especially if the crime involved minors or resulted in significant harm to victims. Other penalties may involve long-term prison sentences and significant fines.
• Legal defenses - Defense strategies may include challenging the evidence of coercion or fraud and challenging the credibility of witnesses. Your defense attorney will play an indispensable role in developing your defense.

What to Know About the Mann Act

Initially enacted in 1910, the Mann Act aims to combat human trafficking and prostitution across state lines. Additionally, the act includes:

• Key provisions - The Mann Act makes it illegal to transport people across state lines for the purpose of prostitution or any other form of illegal sexual activity. The law has evolved to cover a broader range of exploitative behaviors, especially those concerning minors.
• Legal consequences - Violations of the Mann Act can result in substantial prison sentences and fines. If the transportation involved minors or if there is evidence of coercion, the penalties can be even more severe.
• Possible defenses - Your attorney may try to illustrate that you lacked intent or show that the transportation was not for illicit purposes. Your attorney will work aggressively to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and build a robust defense strategy exploiting identified prosecution weak points.

What to Know About RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Statutes

Though primarily aimed at dismantling organized crime syndicates, the RICO Act is also applicable to sex trafficking cases, particularly those involving networks or organizations engaged in such activities. It addresses:

• Legal framework of RICO statutes - RICO allows for the prosecution of individuals and organizations engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity, which may include sex trafficking. This can lead to penalties for those involved in orchestrating or facilitating trafficking operations.
• Harsh penalties - Convictions under RICO can lead to decades or a lifetime in prison, significant fines, and the potential forfeiture of assets acquired through criminal activities.
• Challenging RICO charges - Defending against these charges often involves challenging the existence of a "pattern" of racketeering activity. Additionally, demonstrating a lack of involvement in the broader trafficking network or disputing the prosecution's characterization of the organizations can be effective strategies.

Call Our Highland Village, TX Sex Trafficking Defense Attorney

Facing federal sex trafficking charges or accusations of other related sex crimes can be a daunting ordeal. However, with the right legal support, you can ensure you are fully aware of your legal rights, and your attorney will advocate for your best interests at every stage of your case. For skilled representation in cases involving alleged sex crimes, get in touch with Bennett & Bennett by calling 713-224-1747 to schedule a private consultation.