Sex crimes attorney in Kennett, MO. Facing sex crime charges in the Kennett, MO area? Combs Waterkotte is ready to stand by your side with proven, aggressive defense strategies. If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in Kennett, MO, don’t wait—reach out to our skilled sex crimes attorneys today. Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential case evaluation.
We understand how high the stakes are. A conviction could mean prison time, lifelong sex offender registration, and permanent damage to your future. Trust an experienced sex crimes attorney in Kennett, MO to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
Legal Videos
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte …
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois?
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? In this video, Combs Waterkotte attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew …
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois?
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois? Facing sex crime charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte discuss …
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses the possible penalties for a sexual …
What Should I Do if I’m Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Should I Do if I'm Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses everything you need …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
How Can I Prove My Innocence if Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte …
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois?
Can I Be Arrested for Sexual Assault Without Evidence in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? In this video, Combs Waterkotte attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew …
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois?
What Are Effective Defense Strategies in Sex Crime Cases in Illinois? Facing sex crime charges in the state of Illinois? Attorneys Joshua Boardman and Andrew Russek from Combs Waterkotte discuss …
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing criminal charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses the possible penalties for a sexual …
What Should I Do if I’m Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois?
What Should I Do if I'm Accused of Sexual Assault in Illinois? Facing sexual assault charges in the state of Illinois? Attorney Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discusses everything you need …
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions?
What Penalties Apply To Federal Sex Crime Convictions? Andrew Russek and Chris Combs from Combs Waterkotte federal criminal defense firm discuss potential penalties related to federal sex crime …
Article Summary
Being charged with a sex crime in Kennett, MO is one of the most serious legal challenges you can face, with consequences that can follow you for the rest of your life. On this page, you’ll find out how an experienced sex crimes attorney can defend your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and fight to keep you out of prison and off the sex offender registry. Learn about the charges we handle, why acting quickly is crucial, and how our discreet, determined defense can help you safeguard your freedom and reputation when everything is at stake.
-
Protect Your Life
![Image]()
Protect Your Life
A felony can have long-term consequences. Act quickly and carefully to protect your future and your livelihood.
Reach Out Now
-
Know Your Next Steps
![Image]()
Know Your Next Steps
Wondering what happens after your felony arrest? The skilled Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
Stay Informed
-
Title
![Image]()
Ready to Talk to an Expert?
Contact the experienced Combs Waterkotte felony lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
Get Started
Types of Sex Crime Charges in Kennett, MO
Allegations of sex crimes in Kennett, MO can vary greatly, from lesser misdemeanors to severe felonies that carry life-changing penalties. At Combs Waterkotte, we have experience defending clients against a wide range of charges, including:
- Rape: Defined under Missouri Law as nonconsensual sexual intercourse or penetration, rape is a felony offense with potential sentences from 5 years in prison up to life without parole as outlined in Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030.
- Sexual Assault: When someone is accused of sexual assault in Kennett, MO, it typically involves unwanted sexual touching or physical contact, including groping. In Missouri, this is considered a serious felony. If convicted, you could face up to 30 years in prison depending on the nature of the offense.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape occurs when an adult engages in sexual activity with a person below the age of consent, which is 17 in Kennett and across Missouri. When the minor is under 14, the offense becomes statutory rape in the first degree, one of the most serious sex crime charges in the state, carrying long prison terms.
- Child Pornography: Accusations of child pornography involve creating, possessing, or distributing images or videos depicting minors in sexual situations. Missouri law (RSMo. § 573.037) allows prosecutors to pursue charges for each piece of content, meaning multiple felonies and up to 30 years in prison depending on case details.
- Sexual Misconduct with a Minor: Defined under RSMo. § 566.083, sexual misconduct with a minor refers to engaging in or inducing sexual acts with someone under 15 in Kennett, MO, including exposure or coercion. These charges are often Class D or Class E felonies and carry both incarceration and lifelong stigma if convicted.
A Sex Crimes Conviction in Kennett, MO Can Change Everything. Let Us Help You Fight Back.
If you are convicted of a sex crime in Missouri, you are subject to severe consequences that can impact your life for years to come, including restrictions on where you can live and work, as well as constant damage to your personal and professional relationships.
No two cases are alike. Outcomes depend on the facts, the law, the judge, and how quickly you act. That’s why hiring an experienced Kennett, MO sex crimes attorney immediately is critical. At Combs Waterkotte, we begin building your defense from the moment you call — fighting for dropped charges, reduced penalties, or total acquittal. Here’s how we help:
- Trusted Legal Advocacy You Can Rely on in Kennett, MO: Our Kennett, MO sex crimes attorneys have over 80 years of combined experience. From pretrial investigations to courtroom proceedings, we serve as advocates for our clients. We are fully transparent throughout the legal process, providing honest legal advice, strategizing possible defense tactics, and protecting your rights and future during hearings and trials.
- In-Depth Case Review: We don’t rely on assumptions. Every case begins with a meticulous evaluation by a seasoned Combs Waterkotte defense attorney in Kennett, MO. We dig into police reports, scrutinize evidence, identify legal errors, and speak with potential witnesses — all to build a personalized defense strategy that fits your exact situation.
- Confident Courtroom Defense in Kennett, MO: When it’s time to face a judge and jury, our experienced Kennett, MO litigators rise to the occasion. We present persuasive arguments, cross-examine key witnesses, and challenge the prosecution at every turn — always aiming to establish reasonable doubt and secure the best possible outcome for you.
- Ongoing Legal Help After Trial in Kennett: Even after a conviction, a dedicated Kennett, MO sex crimes attorney doesn’t stop fighting. We can file appeals, pursue post-conviction motions, or explore other legal avenues to challenge wrongful convictions or lessen the impact of a guilty verdict.
Fighting Back: Common Legal Defenses to Sex Crime Charges in Kennett, MO
Defending against a sex crime accusation in the Kennett, MO area is complex and deeply personal. The best defense strategy depends entirely on the facts of the case and the laws of the jurisdiction. Every situation is different. Below are some of the most frequently used legal defenses by our legal team in Kennett, MO sex crime cases:
- Consent:
Many sex crime cases hinge on whether the act was consensual. If both people willingly participated and were of legal age, we can use text messages, prior relationship history, or witness accounts to argue affirmative consent and dismantle the charge. - Alibi:
One of the strongest defenses available is proving you were somewhere else when the alleged crime occurred. Witness statements, receipts, phone records, or video footage can support an airtight alibi. - Fabricated Claims:
In rare but serious situations, accusations may be fabricated out of revenge, jealousy, custody disputes, or other personal motives. We can present evidence of bias, inconsistencies, or ulterior motives to undermine the credibility of the allegations. - Your Rights Were Violated:
If the police in or around Kennett, MO violated your constitutional rights, such as conducting an illegal search or coercing a confession in the Kennett, MO area, your sex crimes attorney can move to suppress improperly obtained evidence or even have the charges thrown out entirely. - Weak or Circumstantial Evidence:
If the prosecution lacks credible physical proof, relies on hearsay, or presents inconsistent testimony, your Kennett, MO sex crimes attorney can highlight those gaps to show the state hasn’t met its burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. - You Lacked Criminal Intent:
If you were suffering from a psychiatric condition or cognitive impairment, we may argue that you weren’t mentally capable of forming intent, a key element the state must prove. That can lead to lesser charges or alternative resolutions focused on treatment. - Mistaken Belief About Age:
In cases involving statutory rape or similar charges, your Kennett, MO sex crimes attorney might argue you reasonably believed the other party was of legal age, depending on the facts and how the law applies.
Dunklin County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Dunklin County and Missouri.
Why Hiring a Kennett, MO Sex Crimes Attorney Is Critical — And How We Help
When you hire Combs Waterkotte to defend your Kennett, MO sex crimes case, you get the best possible legal guidance and representation throughout your case. Don’t let this ruin your life. With an expert Kennett, MO sex crimes defense attorney dedicated to your case, you have a chance.
As a respected Kennett, MO criminal defense firm, we know what’s at stake. From the moment you contact us, we go to work building a powerful defense strategy, challenging the prosecution’s case, and helping you navigate every phase of the legal process. Our track record includes successfully defending clients against serious charges, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Other cases we handle in Kennett, MO are:
You Deserve a Strong Defense. Speak With a Kennett, MO Sex Crimes Attorney Today.
Accused of a sex crime in Kennett, MO? Even if you’re only being investigated, every second counts. Speaking to law enforcement without legal protection can severely jeopardize your case. The wrong move now can follow you for the rest of your life.
Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online immediately. Our Kennett, MO sex crimes attorneys will take swift, strategic action to defend your rights, protect your future, and fight aggressively for the best possible result. Don’t delay — your defense starts the moment you make the call.
