Facing a sex crime investigation in Illinois is a serious legal matter with life-altering consequences. Allegations alone can damage reputations, careers, and relationships, even if charges are never filed. Illinois law aggressively prosecutes sex offenses, and convictions carry severe penalties, including prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and restrictions on employment and housing. If you are under investigation, taking immediate and strategic action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Illinois law defines a wide range of sex offenses under 720 ILCS 5/11-1 et seq., including criminal sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, and indecent solicitation of a minor. If law enforcement contacts you regarding an investigation, anything you say can be used against you. Understanding your rights and working with a sex crime defense attorney is critical to protecting yourself from false allegations, exaggerated claims, or legal misinterpretations.
What To Do If You Are Under Investigation
Remain Silent And Do Not Speak To Law Enforcement
Under the Fifth Amendment and Illinois law, you have the right to remain silent. Law enforcement may try to question you informally, hoping to obtain self-incriminating statements. Even if you believe you are innocent, speaking to the police without legal representation can create unintended legal consequences.
Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney
Sex crime cases are highly sensitive and legally complex. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy. Do not assume that cooperating with law enforcement will make the situation go away—legal representation is essential.
Avoid Contact With The Accuser
Attempting to discuss the case with the accuser can make matters worse. Any communication can be misconstrued as witness intimidation or obstruction of justice, potentially leading to additional charges.
Preserve Any Evidence That Supports Your Defense
Save text messages, emails, phone records, and other forms of communication that may provide context for the allegations. If you have a potential alibi, gather proof, such as witness statements, receipts, or surveillance footage.
Do Not Discuss The Investigation With Anyone
Friends, coworkers, and family members may be sympathetic, but discussing your case with them is risky. Statements made to others can be used as evidence against you. Keep all conversations related to your case between you and your attorney.
Illinois Sex Crime Investigation Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If The Police Ask Me To Come In For Questioning?
If the police contact you, politely decline to answer any questions without an attorney. Even if
you are told that you are not under arrest, anything you say can be used against you.
Can I Be Charged With A Sex Crime Without Physical Evidence?
Yes. Illinois law allows charges to be based solely on an accuser’s testimony. However, an attorney can challenge inconsistencies in the allegations and present evidence to defend against false accusations.
What Are The Penalties For A Sex Crime Conviction In Illinois?
Penalties vary depending on the charge. Criminal sexual assault (720 ILCS 5/11-1.20 et seq.) is a Class 1 felony carrying four to fifteen years in prison, while aggravated criminal sexual assault (720 ILCS 5/11-1.30 et seq.) is a Class X felony with a mandatory six- to thirty-year sentence. Convictions also require mandatory sex offender registration under 730 ILCS 150/2 et seq.
What Happens If I Am Falsely Accused Of A Sex Crime?
False accusations can and do happen. A strong defense involves gathering witness statements, electronic records, and expert testimony to expose inconsistencies in the allegations. A defense attorney can also challenge the credibility of the accuser and the investigative process.
Will I Have To Register As A Sex Offender If I Am Convicted?
Most sex crime convictions in Illinois require registration under 730 ILCS 150/2 et seq. This means your name, photo, and personal details may be publicly available, affecting employment, housing, and travel.
How Can An Attorney Help If I Am Under Investigation But Not Yet Charged?
An attorney can intervene before charges are filed, prevent unlawful searches, challenge improper police tactics, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss allegations before formal charges occur.
Can A Conviction For A Sex Crime Be Expunged In Illinois?
In most cases, sex crime convictions cannot be expunged or sealed under Illinois law. However, if charges are dismissed or you are found not guilty, your record may be eligible for expungement.
Call Our Chicago Sex Crime Defense Lawyer For A Free Consultation
Being under investigation for a sex crime is one of the most serious legal challenges you can face. The right legal representation can mean the difference between dismissed charges and a conviction that changes your life forever. At Edward Johnson & Associates, we aggressively defend clients against sex crime allegations, ensuring their rights are protected at every stage of the investigation and prosecution. Contact our Chicago sex crime defense attorney at Edward Johnson & Associates P.C. to receive a free consultation by calling 708-762-8666. Our office is located in Chicago, Illinois, and we serve clients throughout the entire Chicagoland metro area. Do not wait—your defense starts now.