Clearwater Criminal Lawyer Blog
In criminal cases, the prosecution is prohibited from introducing certain evidence. This includes evidence, like hearsay, that violates a defendant’s right to confront their accuser. There are exceptions to the general rule against hearsay, though, that will allow the prosecution to admit out of court statements. For example, the child victim rule generally permits prosecutors to offer statements by minors who are victims of crimes, as long as such statements are reliable, as explained in a recent ruling issued in a Florida sex crime case. If you are charged with committing a sex offense, it is in your best interest to speak to a Clearwater sex crime lawyer to determine what measures you can take to protect your rights.
Factual and Procedural Setting
It is reported that the defendant was charged with sexual battery of the victim, who was a child under twelve, and lewd or lascivious molestation of the same victim. The state sought to introduce similar fact evidence of other crimes, specifically the sexual assault of a thirteen-year-old, and child hearsay evidence regarding text messages and interviews involving the other child.
Allegedly, the defendant objected to the admissibility of the statements, arguing they failed to meet legal criteria and were prejudicial. The trial court overruled the objections. Following a trial, a jury found the defendant guilty on both counts. He appealed, arguing that the child hearsay statements were inadmissible because the child was not the victim named in the charging document.
Hearsay Testimony in Sex Crime Cases Involving Children
On appeal, the court initially noted that the defendant did not preserve his objection for appeal. Thus, they reviewed the trial court’s ruling for fundamental error. Following the review, the court ultimately affirmed the trial court ruling.
In doing so, the court explained that the admissibility of child victim hearsay is governed by Florida Statutes, which allows reliable hearsay statements of a “child victim.” While the defendant argued that the child must be the victim of the charged offense, the court found no support for this interpretation in either case law and statutory law.
Further, the court distinguished cases where the child was merely a witness from cases where the child was the victim, holding that the hearsay exception applied to statements made by the victim of similar crimes, even if not the victim named in the charging document. Finally, the court emphasized the need for a broad interpretation of the statute to protect child victims and ensure justice. Therefore, the court affirmed the trial court’s ruling and the defendant’s guilty verdict.
Meet with a Seasoned Clearwater Criminal Defense Attorney
People accused of sex crimes often feel that they are facing an uphill battle, but the prosecution bears the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt in criminal cases, and if they cannot, the defendant should be found not guilty. If you are charged with a sex offense, it is smart to meet with an attorney to discuss your case. The seasoned Clearwater sex crime defense attorneys of Hanlon Law can help you seek the best possible outcome based on the facts of your case. You can reach Hanlon Law by using our online form or by calling us at 727-897-5413 to arrange a conference.