It can be incredibly distressing to face a wrongful accusation of either grooming a child for sexual abuse or internet luring of a child. If you find yourself in this unfortunate position, you may be concerned about how the allegations will impact your future. Knowing that you are not alone in this challenging situation is essential. There are steps you can take to protect your future. Understanding your rights and options during this difficult time is critical to gaining control.
Sexual grooming and internet luring of a child
Understanding the definition of the accusations can help you determine your next steps.
Sexual grooming refers to the deceptive behavior of a predator – an adult – over a minor before committing sexual abuse. The adult may face accusations that they tried to brainwash and manipulate their victim into giving in to what they wanted. The process usually involves selecting a victim, isolating them, establishing trust and normalizing the discussion of sexual content and possibly physical contact.
Internet luring of a child, on the other hand, refers to when an adult knowingly communicates online or over a computer network with anyone who is under 15 years old, discussing sexual content and later on persuading the victim to meet up with them. The adult, in this case, is four years older than 15.
You can be falsely accused of sexual abuse of a minor
Detecting sexual grooming can be challenging because the behavior often resembles that of ordinary, caring adult-child interactions. Minors and other adults might misinterpret an adult’s fondness or affection for a minor with grooming behavior. Acting as a minor’s mentor or confidante may be harmless but may be quickly taken out of context.
Similarly, online conversations and interactions may be open to misinterpretation. False accusations of sexual grooming and internet luring of a child can cause irreparable damage to the accused.
What you can do
Colorado law enforcement and judicial authorities take child sexual abuse very seriously. A false accusation has serious consequences that may affect you for the rest of your life. Proper legal guidance from an experienced attorney may increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome in court.