Lewd conduct in Lexington, KY, is typically referred to as indecent exposure. It can result in significant consequences and have a long-lasting impact on your life. These types of accusations can not only result in severe legal consequences but also have the potential to tarnish a person’s reputation and personal relationships.
Fortunately, we’re here to help if you find yourself facing criminal charges. Contact us at Suhre & Associates, LLC to schedule a free consultation at (859) 569-4014 with a Lexington lewd conduct attorney.
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How Suhre & Associates Can Help If You’re Arrested for Lewd Conduct
If you’ve been accused of lewd conduct in Lexington, Kentucky, working with a skilled and experienced Lexington sex crimes lawyer is in your best interest.
Here are some of the specific steps our lawyers can take to help you in such situations:
- Review the Evidence
- Build a Strong Defense Strategy
- Negotiate with the Prosecution
- Represent You in Court
- Assist with Post-Judgment Matters
If you’re convicted, our lawyers can help you with any post-judgment matters, like appealing the decision.
For help with a lewd conduct charge in Lexington, KY, contact Suhre & Associates, LLC, to schedule a free consultation.
Overview of Lewd Conduct Kentucky
Lewd conduct, typically charged as indecent exposure in Kentucky, is a sex crime that is taken quite seriously. Indecent exposure is when a person intentionally exposes their genitals and knows or should know that their conduct will alarm someone in the area. This type of conduct is penalized as either First or Second Degree Indecent Exposure, depending on the victim’s age.
Indecent Exposure in the First Degree
When the victim of indecent exposure is under 18 years old, the crime is classified as Indecent Exposure in the First Degree. It is treated more severely due to the involvement of a minor and the potential adverse effects it can have on a young person.
Indecent Exposure in the Second Degree
If the victim is 18 or older, the charge is Indecent Exposure in the Second Degree. Although less severe than first-degree charges, it still poses significant legal consequences for the accused.
What Are the Penalties For Lewd Conduct in Lexington, Kentucky?
When discussing lewd conduct and indecent exposure in Kentucky, it’s essential to be aware of the legal repercussions that come with a conviction.
Indecent Exposure First-Degree – Class B Misdemeanor
Indecent exposure in the first degree is generally classified as a Class B misdemeanor in Kentucky. A conviction for this offense can result in serious consequences, such as:
- Up to 90 days in prison
- Fines up to $250
Second Offense – Class A Misdemeanor
If a person is found guilty of committing first-degree indecent exposure for a second time, the consequences become more severe. In this case, the offense becomes a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 12 months in prison
- Fines up to $500
Third Offense – Class D Felony
For individuals convicted of indecent exposure in the first degree for the third time within three years, the charges escalate even further. The third offense is considered a Class D felony, and the consequences can include:
- Up to five years in prison
- Fines up to $10,000
Indecent Exposure Second-Degree – Class B Misdemeanor
This less severe form of lewd conduct is a Class B misdemeanor in Kentucky. A conviction for indecent exposure in the second degree carries up to 90 days in prison and/or fines up to $250. The penalties for repeat offenses of second-degree indecent exposure remain the same; they do not escalate like first-degree indecent exposure.
Sex Offender Registration
For those convicted of indecent exposure, one significant and life-altering consequence is the requirement to register as a sex offender. Individuals convicted of indecent exposure in Kentucky must normally remain on the sex offender registry for 20 years.
During their time on the registry, convicted individuals must adhere to a series of requirements and restrictions that can significantly impact their lives. Some of these restrictions include:
Firearms Prohibition
Convicted sex offenders in Kentucky are not allowed to buy or possess firearms. This restriction can limit an individual’s ability to engage in recreational activities and personal protection.
Residence Requirements
Convicted individuals must live at least 1,000 feet away from schools and daycare facilities. This restriction can limit housing options, making finding suitable and affordable accommodation difficult.
No Alcohol Consumption
Sex offenders cannot purchase or consume alcohol. This prohibition can impact social interactions and an individual’s ability to participate in certain activities and events.
Employment Restrictions
Working with children or vulnerable individuals is prohibited for those on the sex offender registry.
Fortunately, we’re here to help if you find yourself facing criminal charges and registering as a sex offender.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Accused of Lewd Conduct?
Given the serious nature of these charges, it is essential to understand the defenses available to you if you are charged with indecent exposure. The following is the most common legal defense that can be raised:
When building a defense around the accident element, it is crucial to gather relevant evidence. Surveillance camera footage, eyewitness testimony, and location information can play a crucial role in establishing that the offense was unintentional.
No Intent – Differentiating Acts from Lewd Conduct
A critical aspect of a lewd conduct case is determining the intent behind the alleged indecent exposure. To be considered a criminal act, the accused must have intentionally exposed their genitals with the purpose of alarming others.
This distinguishes lewd conduct from situations where exposure occurs as a result of changing clothes, urinating in a secluded spot, or bathing outdoors.
When utilizing this defense, it’s important to challenge the testimony of witnesses who may have misinterpreted the situation or provided biased accounts. The defense attorney may also argue that while there was exposure, the defendant’s actions were not intended to be provocative or offensive.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Lexington Lewd Conduct Lawyers
As the above penalties and restrictions demonstrate, the consequences of a conviction for indecent exposure are serious and extend beyond the initial legal proceedings. The stigma and conditions can have a lasting effect on an individual’s life, impacting their relationships, career prospects, and quality of life.
If you’ve been charged with lewd conduct or any related crime, contact Suhre & Associates, LLC, to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington lewd conduct attorney.
