Here on the blog, we aim to help readers better understand the legal system. We try to utilize information and news that helps to give an idea of what real-life cases look and feel like. You can view our "In The News" tab to see actual case results from cases we were a part of. This case is a public local case that you can find information in the news, but we are only sharing some details for demonstration. 

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS A VICTIM INVOLVED IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CASES, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT THE AUTHORITIES. YOU HAVE LEGAL RIGHTS, AND NO VICTIM SHOULD FEEL UNHEARD. 

UTILIZE THESE RESOURCES

New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault

Sexual Violence Prevention Program

If you follow local news, you may have seen a case that made headlines when a Lewiston man was spared by a Niagara County Judge and sentenced to 8 years of probation. The 20-year-old was given his sentence last month, which also requires the man to register as a sex offender.

Despite facts presented by the prosecution, the Judge felt that "It seems to me that a sentence that involves incarceration or partial incarceration isn't appropriate."

This particular case involved a 20-year-old, who was 16 and 17 at the time of multiple offenses. The case involving youth, as well as multiple offenses made it a unique one. 

In 2018, the offender was charged with first-degree rape, third-degree rape, and sexual abuse involving multiple 15- and 16-year-old girls at his Lewiston Home

In 2019, He pled guilty to two counts of second-degree sex abuse, third-degree attempted abuse, and third-degree rape. He was given a sentence of two years interim probation. 

His probation involved the following restrictions:

• Remain in Niagara County
• Have employment or be a full-time student
• Live with parents
• Order of protection by victims
• No contact with anyone under 18
• No internet unless given permission by probation
• No overnight trips
• No visiting locations where minors are present unless probation agrees
• Random polygraph and drug tests

Following the sentence provided, which included no jail time, the man was required to register as a sex offender in New York State. The 20-year-old will have to register as a level 3, violent sex offender. This is the highest level a sex offender can get. His attorneys, according to WGRZ, objected to the level 3 status and also tried to argue he should only be at level 1, citing how he is in therapy.

Now, the level 3 offender will need to adhere to a strict list of rules. For one, he must verify his address with local law enforcement every 90 days and update his photo every year. Failure to do so could result in a felony, and multiple infractions could lead to a revocation of his probation. 

Once again, if you or someone you know has been involved as a victim of a sex crime, do not hesitate to speak up. Cases like these, especially high-profile cases which end in no jail time, could tend to lead victims to feel as though justice won't be served if they speak up. You deserve someone to fight for your justice. 

UTILIZE THESE RESOURCES

New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault

Sexual Violence Prevention Program

A person who finds themselves on the other side of a sex crime case should clearly understand that they will need a very experienced lawyer to represent them. Failing to do so could lead to a wrongful conviction. It's always best to have experienced representation, no matter what the story is.