If you’re facing a sexual assault charge, your actions in the immediate aftermath can profoundly impact the outcome of your case. The legal process can be unforgiving, and crucial evidence can disappear quickly. Below, we’ll explain what you should do immediately and share real-life stories to highlight why these steps matter.
Step 1: Preserve Evidence Immediately
Before you do anything else, secure any communications, posts, or other digital evidence that may exist between you and the accuser. This includes text messages, social media posts, Snapchats, and messages from other apps. Many platforms delete content automatically or allow users to erase it, leaving you without critical proof.
Take screenshots or recordings of any evidence that supports your case. This is especially important because some individuals may delete content that could be helpful to your defense—either on their own or at the encouragement of others.
Why This Matters: Stories from the Field
The Military Case Dismissed Because of Digital Evidence
A military client was accused of sexual assault by a fellow trainee who feared losing her relationship with her fiancé. The accuser had shown our client suggestive photos and admitted she was on a dating app her fiancé didn’t know about. These details became key in proving our client’s innocence.
The prosecution eventually requested access to her phone. She refused, knowing it contained evidence that contradicted her story. Without that evidence, the case couldn’t proceed, and charges were dismissed.
Had my client not preserved initial communications and raised doubts about her claims, the outcome could have been drastically different.
Text Messages That Saved a Life
In another case, a man faced allegations of sexual assault from a woman he had consensually been with. She later deleted text messages in which she expressed enjoyment of their time together and invited him back. These messages were recovered just in time and proved critical in clearing his name.
Without these messages, law enforcement might have taken the allegations at face value, leading to potentially devastating consequences.
Step 2: Hire a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney
Securing an experienced defense attorney who specializes in sexual assault cases is essential. This isn’t the time to rely on general legal advice. An attorney with deep knowledge of these cases can investigate claims, secure evidence, and build a strong defense.
The Role of an Attorney in Unearthing the Truth
In one case, a young man was accused of forcing a woman into a sexual act at a park. A friend had secretly recorded the encounter from a distance, showing it was entirely consensual. This video saved my client from a wrongful charge.
Law enforcement later admitted they were on the verge of charging him. Without the investigation that uncovered this video and swift legal action to secure it, the truth might have been buried, and my client’s life could have been irreparably damaged.
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher
False accusations can destroy reputations, careers, and lives. I’ve seen clients face job losses, family breakdowns, and even suicidal thoughts. In some tragic cases, wrongful convictions lead to prison time for crimes that were never committed. These outcomes are why it’s critical to act fast and secure the evidence you need to defend yourself.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself
If you’ve been charged with sexual assault, remember this: preserving evidence can save your future. Take immediate action to capture messages, posts, and any other relevant communications. Every detail matters.
If you need help navigating this difficult time, I’m here to provide experienced legal defense. Contact me, Ryan Pacyga, at ArrestedMN.com or call 612-339-5844. Together, we can work to ensure the truth is heard.