False accusations of sexual assault are all too common on college campuses today. Most Virginians will remember that in 2014, Rolling Stone magazine published a now-retracted story called “A Rape on Campus,” which described in graphic detail rampant sexual assault that went unpunished at the University of Virginia. The only problem was, Rolling Stone’s main source for the article fabricated her story. Fortunately, no one was prosecuted as a result Read More
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Evidence in Child Porn Cases
If you’ve been accused of child porn possession, the outcome of your case will depend on several factors. Your case will turn on the evidence that the prosecutor can introduce at trial, and the ability of your defense team to counter this evidence. It’s entirely possible to be innocent of wrongdoing, but for the prosecutor to have compelling evidence against you. Conversely, you could be guilty of the crime, but Read More
What If I Don’t Comply With Sex Offender Registration Laws?
Sex offender registration is one of the most burdensome collateral consequences of a Virginia sex crime conviction. As a sex offender, you need to regularly check in with local law enforcement and provide them with a wealth of information, which is then made accessible to the public. It’s not only inconvenient, it is embarrassing and in many cases a significant barrier to obtaining housing and employment. That’s why many are Read More
Sexual Assault at Music Festivals in Virginia
The popularity of music festivals in the U.S. cannot be overstated. According to Billboard, approximately 32 million people attend at least one music festival in America every year. Just a few major music festivals that take place each year include Coachella, Riot Fest, Lollapalooza, SXSW, Sasquatch!, Bonnaroo, Afropunk Fest, Pitchfork, and Mo Pop. Virginia is home to Lockn’ Festival, FloydFest, and many more local events. These festivals bring in tens Read More
Virginia to Test Decades of Backlogged Rape Kits
When allegations of sexual assault are made, samples of the potential victim’s hair, bodily fluids, and garments are collected and stored, commonly referred to as rape kits. Once analyzed in a lab facility, these pieces of evidence can provide DNA evidence for use in a criminal trial. However, law enforcement agencies across Virginia–and the nation– often fell short, even failing to send rape kits to a laboratory. As a result, Read More