Internet sex crimes: How easy it is to get into trouble
The internet can be a strange place. Both impossibly vast and able to help people connect like never before, it’s also a minefield for the unwary. Most people don’t realize just how easy it is to end up charged with a sex crime due to their internet activities — especially when they haven’t even had...
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Arrests made in case of missing St. James teen
Those in Springfield who have been charged with criminal offenses are afforded the benefit of being considered innocent until proven guilty. Unfortunately, actually ensuring that this benefit is delivered upon may be an uphill battle. News regarding the circumstances surrounding an alleged offense can often serve to prejudice those who may ultimately be called upon...
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Missouri’s tiered sex offender registration
In 1994, a federal law was passed that mandated the enactment of a sex offender registry program. Since then, numerous other laws have been passed at both the federal and state levels that have added onto this original ruling. In Missouri, some updates have taken place as recently as the summer of 2018. According to...
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What is the punishment for sexual contact with a student in MO?
If the state of Missouri charged you with sexual contact with a student, you may wonder what, exactly, the crime entails and what the punishment for said crime is. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, the largest anti-sexual violence organization in the nation, provides a statutory definition, punishment information and other details regarding sex crimes in Missouri, including the...
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How age and mental capacity affect the ability to consent to sexual activity
Sexual contact with anyone is something that must be agreeable by both parties in order to be legal. When either party doesn’t consent, the contact is likely a criminal matter. There are some individuals who are unable to consent to sexual activities even if they really want to participate. Knowing who these individuals are may...
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Talking to someone new online? Make sure they’re overage
You were online chatting with a few people when a new friend request popped up. It was a good-looking girl. She appeared to be an adult in her images. You chatted with her for a while and asked her age. She told you she was 20 and going to college nearby. You had no reason...
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Missouri Leads the Nation in HIV-related Convictions
Missouri Law The state of Missouri holds the highest conviction rate in the United States for prosecuting HIV-positive citizens for exposing a partner to the disease without the partners knowledge or consent. The state of Missouri prohibits sexual intercourse and as it presents a “grave and unjustifiable risk” [1]. Missouri provides a minimum 10-year sentence...
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What is the age of consent in Missouri?
Facing sex crime charges is serious and can change your life if you’re convicted. If you’re a Missouri resident, you should know the age of consent laws for 2022. What is Missouri’s age of consent? In Missouri, a person must be at least 17 years old in order to legally consent to any sexual activity....
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What are Missouri’s laws pertaining to sex crimes?
Missouri residents who face charges of a sex crime can find their lives completely turned upside down. It’s important to understand the state’s sex offense laws and what to expect when facing charges. What are common sex offenses? Forcible rape is a crime that involves forcing sexual intercourse on another person against their will. Sometimes, the...
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Teens sending nude photos to adults: the legal issue
Relationships with large age disparities come under fire for various reasons. Other parties violate the couple’s privacy. Emotions flare up when a lover fails to meet expectations. Sometimes, these personal disputes might even result in child pornography charges. There are strict laws and multiple jurisdictions that affect this issue. Convictions could result in severe penalties,...
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