Recently, a 63-year-old Flint man whose name has not been revealed as he is awaiting arraignment was charged with 18 counts of criminal sexual conduct and child pornography. The man, who was arrested in Kentucky, is being extradited back to Genesee County for court proceedings, according to news reports. At the time, it was not known if the suspect would fight the extradition.
A warrant for the man’s arrest was authorized by the Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office in late September, according to Prosecutor David Leyton.
The man is charged in all with 18 counts including two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, seven counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, and nine counts which are related to the manufacture, possession, and distribution of child pornography. Charges were filed after one of the alleged victims told a family member about the abuse, which occurred in Flint. Apparently, the alleged victim told her cousin about the abuse which led to further family discussion about the matter.
Leyton said that it may be a week or two or several months before the suspect is arraigned on charges, depending on whether he fights extradition.
The charges the unnamed man is facing are extremely serious. First-degree criminal sexual conduct involves penetration, and is punishable by up to life in prison. The manufacture and distribution of child pornography charges are very serious as well. If the suspect pleads not guilty and is convicted at trial, he may very well spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Michigan sex crime attorneys know there are various legal options which may help in reducing the damage to a defendant’s life. For instance, in some cases it may be favorable to the defendant to plead guilty to lesser charges, which often results in reduced jail time. However, if the accused is innocent of the allegations against him/her, it is usually best to fight the charges, particularly when there is no evidence, or the evidence is weak.
Ultimately, anyone who is accused of sexual assault or child pornography should discuss the situation with a skilled and aggressive defense lawyer. Having effective legal representation is the only way to truly protect your legal rights and future, and obtain the best possible results.