Are you facing criminal charges for indecent exposure in Lousiville, KY? The state will get to work on building its case against you right away. So, it’s important to reach out for help as soon as you can. Contact Suhre & Associates, LLC to find out how our experienced legal team can help you fight to protect your future. We offer a free consultation, so reach out to us at (502) 371-7000 to get started today.
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How Our Experienced Defense Attorneys Can Help You Fight Back Against Your Indecent Exposure Charge
Stripping down and walking through town or running around a college campus may seem like a hilarious idea for a prank. Unfortunately, the state of Kentucky is unlikely to see the funny side. If you are seen displaying your genitals in a public setting, you can be arrested and charged with indecent exposure.
As you sit in the back of the police car, you may begin to worry about how your harmless prank will impact your life. Will you spend time in jail? Will you end up with a criminal record?
Before you get too anxious, it is important to remember that you will only face criminal punishment if you are found guilty. If you want to avoid being penalized, you would be wise to make it as difficult as possible for the prosecutor to land a conviction. You can do just that by hiring a knowledgeable Louisville criminal defense lawyer – like those here at Suhre & Associates, LLC.
At Suhre & Associates, LLC, we are committed to fighting hard on behalf of our clients. When you hire us to represent you in your indecent exposure case, we will:
Guide You Through the Legal Process
The Kentucky legal system can be incredibly complicated and confusing. It is filled with dead-ends and trap-doors that must be avoided if you want your case to run smoothly. To improve your odds of dodging these hazards, you would be wise to enlist the services of a knowledgeable lawyer.
Over the years, our attorneys have handled countless criminal cases in Kentucky. As a result, we have become familiar with the state’s complex judicial system. When you work with us, we will make sure that you make it through your case as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Protect Your Rights
As a citizen or resident of the United States, you are afforded certain rights by the Constitution. When prosecuting you for indecent exposure, law enforcement officials must respect those rights. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for them to step over the line.
The criminal defense lawyers at Suhre & Associates, LLC are adept at spotting rights violations as they happen. If we notice one during your case, we will raise the issue with a judge immediately. As a result, we may be able to get your case dismissed or have some evidence thrown out.
Negotiate with the Prosecuting Attorney
During your indecent exposure case, there is a good chance that the prosecutor will offer you a plea bargain agreement. Though they may tell you that the deal is non-negotiable, this is rarely the case. There is almost always some room for maneuver.
At Suhre & Associates, LLC, we have been negotiating with local prosecutors for years. As such, we understand how to get them to improve their offers. When you hire us, we will do everything in our power to negotiate a fair deal for you.
Represent You in State Court
If the prosecutor is unwilling to offer a fair plea bargain, your case will almost certainly end up in state court. There, a judge and jury will determine your guilt and how you should be punished. To improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in court, you would be well-advised to retain the services of a skilled trial lawyer.
Since our founding, our law firm has represented countless clients in state court. As a consequence, we know exactly how to state a case in a way that resonates with the judge and jury. When you work with us, we will work diligently to ensure that you receive a fair trial.
To learn more about the many benefits of working with a Suhre & Associates, LLC criminal defense attorney, please do not hesitate to give us a call. We would be happy to set up a free consultation to discuss your case and tell you more about how we can help.
Understanding Kentucky’s Indecent Exposure Laws
There are two main indecent exposure laws included in the Kentucky Revised Statutes. They are:
First-Degree Indecent Exposure
Section 510.148 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes explains that anyone who exposes their genitals when they know or should know that this conduct will cause alarm to an individual who is younger than 18 years of age may be charged with first-degree indecent exposure.
This offense is generally classified as a Class B misdemeanor. However, it can be upgraded to a Class D felony if committed three or more times within three years.
Second-Degree Indecent Exposure
Section 510.150 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes states that anyone who intentionally exposes their genitals when they know or should know that this conduct will cause alarm to a person who is over the age of 18 may be charged with second-degree indecent exposure.
Second-degree indecent exposure is almost always punishable as a Class B misdemeanor. This remains the case even if this offense is committed multiple times over a short period.
When Does Indecent Exposure Become Sexual Assault?
When discussing Kentucky’s laws, it is important to note that not every instance of flashing or stripping is treated as indecent exposure. If the offender makes physical contact with the victim, the prosecution can instead choose to charge them with sexual assault. Under certain circumstances, this sex offense is classified as a Class C felony.
The Louisville sex crime attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC are well-versed in all areas of Kentucky criminal law. To have us use our expertise to help you fight back against your indecent exposure or sexual assault charge, all you need to do is reach out and schedule an initial consultation.
Punishments for Indecent Exposure Convictions in Kentucky
The state of Kentucky treats the crime of indecent exposure extremely seriously. As such, individuals who are convicted of this offense can face some severe penalties:
Class B Misdemeanor
Second-degree indecent exposure and first offenses of first-degree indecent exposure are usually classified as Class B misdemeanors. Anyone who is convicted of a crime of this nature may be imprisoned for up to 90 days and/or fined up to $250.
Class A Misdemeanor
Committing first-degree indecent exposure for a second time in three years is generally treated as a Class A misdemeanor. These offenses are punishable by up to 12 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $500.
Class D Felony
The state of Kentucky classifies a third instance of first-degree indecent exposure within three years as a Class D felony. Individuals who are found guilty of a Class D felony may face up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Class C Felony
When indecent exposure is upgraded to sexual assault, it may be punishable as a Class C felony. Such crimes are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
Sex offender registries are commonplace in every state in the union. The state of Kentucky is no different. Convicted sexual offenders in the Bluegrass State are required to register with the probation and parole office in their county of residence.
In Kentucky, both first-degree indecent exposure and second-degree indecent exposure are classified as sex crimes. As such, individuals who are convicted of one of these offenses will be required to register as a sex offender – in addition to serving out their prison sentence and/or paying their fine.
In the vast majority of cases, offenders who are convicted of indecent exposure will need to remain on the registry for 20 years. However, if they have a track record of committing similar offenses, they may be required to register for life.
Individuals who are placed on the Kentucky sex offender registry generally need to adhere to certain restrictions. A brief list of some of these restrictions would include:
- Weapons Restrictions: Convicted sex offenders do not have the right to purchase or possess firearms in the state of Kentucky.
- Living Restrictions: Individuals who are listed as sex offenders must live more than 1,000 feet from schools and daycare facilities.
- Alcohol Restrictions: Registered sex offenders are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol in the state of Kentucky.
- Employment Restrictions: People who are included in the Kentucky sex offender registry are usually banned from working with children and other vulnerable individuals.
Over the years, the lawyers at Suhre & Associates, LLC in Louisville have successfully defended countless clients against their indecent exposure charges. We have helped them avoid going to jail, being fined, and placed on the Kentucky sex offender registry. To have us defend you against your charges, just give us a call or contact us online.
Intelligent Legal Advice from Louisville Indecent Exposure Attorneys You Can Trust
When the residents of Louisville, Kentucky need help fighting back against their criminal charges, they know that there is only one law firm they need to turn to – Suhre & Associates, LLC. Our knowledge of the law and experience in the industry allows us to deliver favorable outcomes time after time. If you would like to have us represent you throughout your criminal case, please reach out to set up a consultation.
