Jan. 6 Rioter Convicted of State-Level Child Sex Crime Charges
The Constitution gives the President plenary powers to grant clemency and pardons for those who commit “offenses against the United States.” The quoted language is key, as this power does not apply to charges brought by state or local prosecutors.
Andrew Paul Johnson serves as a prime example of this limitation on the pardon power. Johnson was a convicted January 6 rioter who later received a “full, complete, and unconditional pardon” from President Donald Trump. However, Johnson was later arrested and convicted of several state-level crimes in Florida, including child molestation. Even though Johnson received a blanket pardon for his actions on January 6, the presidential pardon provided him with absolutely zero protection from Florida prosecutors.
Sex crimes, especially those against children, are some of the most ruthlessly prosecuted crimes across Pennsylvania. If you find yourself under investigation or arrest, you need to act immediately to protect your freedom. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online to start building your defense.
The Severe Reality of Child Sex Crime Charges
The police and the prosecution do not pull punches when investigating sex crimes involving minors. In Johnson’s case, a jury convicted him on five separate charges. These included molesting victims under 12 and 16, plus transmitting harmful materials through electronic devices. State prosecutors then successfully persuaded the judge to impose a life sentence.
Pennsylvania’s authorities take a similarly aggressive approach. As soon as they receive a tip or uncover information about a potential child sex crime, they immediately spring into action by seizing phones and subpoenaing your internet history. They also invite suspects into the police station for a “voluntary interview”, where they use high-pressure tactics to force confessions and collect evidence. Even if you are completely innocent and the confession is false or illegally coerced, it can be used to pressure defendants into believing they have no possible defense.
If you are convicted of a sex crime, the consequences do not stop once you serve your sentence. Instead, the punishment often follows you for life. For example, you may be permanently barred from working in a licensed profession or being around minors. Additionally, those convicted of sex crimes are often forced to permanently register as sex offenders, which comes with additional sanctions that follow them nationwide.
The LLF Law Firm Criminal Law Team Protects Your Rights When Everything Is on the Line
The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team has many years of experience defending against sex crimes, especially those involving children. Our team conducts its own investigation, using state-of-the-art digital forensics to find exculpatory evidence. This approach can lead to favorable plea agreements or can even result in the charges being dismissed outright. If your situation requires us to go to trial, we craft compelling narratives that persuade judges and juries.
Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888-535-3686 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.