What Should You Do if Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime?

 Posted on February 14, 2025 in Sex Crimes

Two Chicago Catholic priests are currently under investigation for child sexual abuse. The priests served at multiple churches in the Chicago area. The allegation against one of the priests is from 30 years ago when he was assigned to a North Lawndale neighborhood parish. The allegation against the other priest is from 40 years ago when he was assigned to a Belmont Cragin parish.

Both priests have agreed to step away from the ministry while the investigation is ongoing, and both have unequivocally denied the allegations. A 2023 Chicago Tribune article reported that while rare, false allegations against priests do occur. False allegations of sexual abuse not only hurt the innocent but also damage the credibility of actual victims who come forward. If you are facing allegations of a sex crime, the sooner you speak to a Chicago, IL, criminal defense attorney, the better the outcome of your charges is likely to be.  

False Allegations of Sex Crimes Might Be More Common Than You Think

The majority of allegations of sexual assault or abuse are legitimate and should never be trivialized. Unfortunately, there are times when accusations of sexual assault or abuse are made out of anger, revenge, jealousy, to seek attention, or for personal gain. In other situations, an individual can act out of fear or misunderstanding or to protect herself or himself from the consequences of his or her own actions.

Several major studies have found that the percentage of false reports of sexual assault or abuse is between 5 and 8 percent. While this may not seem like a huge number, falsely accused people might have a different opinion. The penalties for sex crimes are extremely harsh, and a conviction can have lifelong consequences.

Not only will a person convicted of a sex crime likely spend time in jail or prison and pay very high fines and fees, but he or she will also be forced to register as a sex offender for many years – or even for life. There is also the stigma attached to allegations of sex crimes. Most people who face such allegations are found guilty in the court of public opinion even before a trial occurs.

When Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime, What Steps Should You Take?

Immediate action is necessary for those facing false allegations of a sex crime. While it is natural to be angry about the allegations and feel overwhelmed by the situation, it is important to remain calm. Responding angrily or impulsively could damage the case. When possible, a person who has been falsely accused should document and organize any evidence that supports innocence (witness statements, surveillance footage, alibis, etc.).

This can go a long way in helping the attorney build a solid case. While any contact with the individual making the false accusations should be avoided, all emails, texts, and phone calls that the alleged victim sends to the person charged with the crime can be helpful. Being honest and transparent with the attorney is necessary to ensure he or she has all the necessary facts.

Having a skilled attorney in a situation like this is crucial to a good outcome. An attorney will guide clients through the legal process while protecting their rights and future. Experienced criminal defense attorneys will comprehensively investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding the allegations and then present compelling arguments to establish innocence.

Contact a Cook County, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a sex crime, there is nothing that will help you now and in the future more than speaking to a knowledgeable Rolling Meadows, IL criminal defense attorney from Komie and Associates. Attorney Komie often represents high-profile clients while providing targeted, personal guidance and support to his clients throughout the process. Call 312-263-2800 to schedule your free consultation.