A 32-year-old Altoona man is facing up to twenty years behind bars after pleading guilty to numerous sexual offenses involving a minor child. Steven James Ellis met his victim on Tinder's dating application, initially believing she was an adult due to her fake age on the app. However, he continued contact with her after learning she was 14 years old.

Pennsylvania residents are at risk of statutory sexual assault charges even if the minor lies about their age and consents to the sexual behavior. With the potential for harsh criminal punishments and lifetime obligations to report as a sex offender, anyone facing charges of sex crimes involving a minor needs a dedicated team of experienced attorneys to help protect their future. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team is ready to start crafting your defense today. Call us at (888) 535-3686 or fill out our online contact form to speak with our team and get the help you need.

A Quick Recap of the Criminal Charges

Ellis first contacted the minor on Tinder, where she displayed a fake age above Pennsylvania's age of consent. Over a few days, they exchanged sexually explicit text messages and photos, all before Ellis knew her actual age. Three days after their first interaction, and soon before they planned to meet in person, the young girl disclosed that her real age was fourteen. Despite this information, Ellis continued expressing interest in meeting with her. That night, the two met in Frankstown Township, where Ellis kissed and touched her inappropriately.

As a result of the meeting and the content of the messages, Ellis was charged and subsequently pleaded guilty to 14 charges, including attempted statutory sexual assault and possession of child pornography. Because of his plea and charges, Ellis is now a Tier III sex offender in Pennsylvania and must report his updated address and personal information to state police for the rest of his life.

What if Someone Lies About Their Age During a Sexual Interaction?

The fact that Ellis did not cut off contact after learning his victim's actual age certainly did not help his defense. However, many Pennsylvania residents are surprised to learn that engaging in sexual behavior with a minor below the age of 16 is always illegal, regardless of any other factors.

Unlike some other states in the country, Pennsylvania classifies statutory sexual assault as a strict liability offense. This means that the mere fact that a sexual interaction with a minor took place is enough for a conviction. Someone who believes they are part of a consensual act can face statutory sexual assault charges if they are lied to regarding the other person's age. While this classification aims to protect minors who lack the ability and understanding to consent to sex, it also places adults who are lied to in a precarious legal situation that they otherwise may have avoided.

Defending Against Sex Crimes in Pennsylvania

Sex crime convictions, especially when they involve minors, can easily affect the rest of your life. Along with permanent placement on the sex offender registry, the social stigma of a conviction means you can continue to face pushback in unexpected places as you try to rebuild your life.

Even if the crime you are accused of is a strict liability offense, you have options to defend yourself in court to lessen punishments or avoid jail time altogether. The LLF Law Firm has represented many Pennsylvania residents accused of sex crimes involving minors, allowing them to leave the courtroom on the best footing possible. Call our Criminal Defense Team at (888) 535-3686 or contact us through our website today to get started on your defense.