A 36-year-old accused of committing a sex crime is facing a pre-trial hearing next month. The twist? He married the alleged victim in the statutory rape case after being accused of luring her into a sexual relationship when she was 14 years old, according to MSNBC.
The photographer, who is known for work that has appeared on the covers of fitness and fashion magazines, reportedly married the young Laguna Hills woman earlier this year. The marriage supposedly happened just three months after the bride turned 18, according to The Los Angeles Times. The name of the woman is not being released because she is a possible victim of a California sex crime.
A Los Angeles sex crimes defense attorney should be contacted immediately after the accusations of a potential sex crime. Sex crimes, including sexual assault, child molestation or rape, are some of the most serious charges under the law. The anguish and embarrassment surrounding such charges too often prevents a defendant from mounting an aggressive defense. And the consequences of a conviction can last a lifetime.
"The bottom line is ... it's almost irrelevant that he married her, as she was under-age when they (allegedly) had sex," said Laurie Levenson, professor of law and director of the Center for Ethical Advocacy at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.
The case took a turn after the victim and the alleged sex offender married. The former fiance of the accused was also reportedly involved in the alleged sex crime. The victim's current wife, and prosecuting party in the case, has dropped all charges.
Still, prosecutors say they have enough evidence to proceed with the trial. The photographer, who refers to himself as the "King of Covers" pleaded not guilty. He faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of the six felonies, including unlawful sexual intercourse and lewd acts on a child.
The case underscores the unusual challenge prosecutors face if alleged victims and perpetrators get married, report The LA Times. The victim will likely assert spousal privilege in an effort to avoid testifying, either voluntarily or at the demand of the prosecution.
The defendant is due in court for a pre-trial hearing in May, according to Mercury News.
If you need to speak to a sex crime attorney in Orange County, contact the California Legal Team at 800-285-1763 to discuss your rights.
