Statutory rape continues to be an area of law that contributes to the mislabeling of so-called sexual predators both in Minneapolis and throughout the rest of the country. Many men, and some women, from around the country face the same strict sanctions as even the most violent sexual offender for engaging in what is many times consensual sex.
Recently, a Rosemount man was charged with statutory rape when police received a report that he allegedly had sex with a 14-year-old girl. The 21-year-old man is now facing a maximum 15-year prison sentence for the third-degree criminal sexual conduct charge. He could also potentially be ordered to pay $30,000 in fines.
The case against the man began in April when area police received a report that he might have had sexual contact with the 14-year-old girl from Burnsville. Police contacted the girl and questioned her for information. According to her account, the man came over to her house and the pair engaged in sexual intercourse in the man’s car. The man was 20 years old at the time of the alleged acts.
The girl also speculated to police that the man knew how old she was. She said that the man was aware of what grade she was in school. She also claimed that the man voiced his worry and knew that if anyone found out about the alleged acts, he would be punished for it. This, of course, is purely conjecture on the part of the girl and has not yet been proven by police or prosecutors.
Fortunately for the man, he has been released from custody awaiting his trial. However, he was ordered to stay away from the 14 year old and anyone under the age of 18 years old.
Source: Burnsville Patch, “Rosemount Man Charged with Statutory Rape of Burnsville Girl,” Betsy Sundquist, Oct. 24, 2012
In our practice, we have represented clients who have been charged with statutory rape. If you would like more information about the charge and what we have done to help clear suspects’ names, please visit our website.
