Understanding the Criminal Justice System
Indiana Senate Bill 151 would have removed the statute of limitations for level 3 felony rape and child molesting offenses, allowing those offenses to be charged at any time, no matter how far in the past they occurred. While the bill had overwhelming support in the state Senate, it did not make it out of committee in the House. As a result, the statute of limitations for felony 3 rape remains at 5 years, while child molestation and other sex crimes involving children can be prosecuted until the alleged victim reaches the age of 31 years.
It’s not unusual for certain crimes in Indiana and other states to have no statute of limitations. Higher-level (felony 1 or 2) rapes do not have a statute of limitations in Indiana and can be reported and prosecuted at any time. The crimes of murder and voluntary manslaughter similarly have no statute of limitations.
Indiana lawmakers are still considering revising the statute of limitations for felony 3 rape and child molesting crimes; those limits may change at some point in the future. A House interim study committee has heard testimony on the proposed changes, and bills may follow in both the House and the Senate. A few states, such as Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming, have no statute of limitations for felony sex crimes. Most other states are similar to Indiana and have some sex crimes with no statutes of limitations, and others that do.
It can be very difficult to defend against allegations that you committed a sex crime, especially when the crime is alleged to have occurred years in the past. Victim testimony can be compelling and may be the only evidence if there is no DNA or other physical evidence of the crime. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and defend you from prosecution in these kinds of cases. A conviction can land you behind bars for years, and you can be forced to register as a sex offender when you are released.
At Razumich & Associates, we understand the difficulties involved when defending against charges for alleged crimes that occurred many years ago. We also know how to vigorously defend our clients when charges are brought and regularly represent clients accused of serious crimes, including sex crimes, all across Indiana.
If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in Indiana, call Razumich & Associates today at 317-449-8657 or use our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. Your liberty is at stake; let us help you protect it!
