On Thursday, August 12th, Tony Johnson, a 20-year-old Midwood resident, was sentenced to serve 10 years in jail by Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Jane Tully. According to court documents, the suspect has pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal sexual assault.

What’s more, the crime was committed against a 13-year-old child.

The incident occurred back on October 8th, 2019 at around 5:15 PM. The victim was heading to pick up her sister from school and was walking in Canarsie. It’s unclear why the suspect targeted a child, but he then grabbed her bag and searched through it. He then became enraged when he didn’t find any valuables. The victim claims the suspect threatened to stab her.

That’s when he dragged the victim into a basement where he sexually assaulted her. The victim claimed that the suspect also threatened to hurt her and her family. After assaulting her, the suspect fled. That’s when the child emerged from the basement. A witness saw the girl distraught and immediately called 911. The child was taken to Kings County Hospital where she was treated and evidence against the suspect was collected.

Sex Crimes in New York

Per New York law, no 13-year-old can consent to any type of sexual activity. Under the law, it’s illegal to encourage any type of sexual behavior with any minor, including any online solicitation, as well. What’s more, any sexual contact with a minor has some serious legal repercussions in New York.

The following types of sex crimes are considered misdemeanors, which come with a jail term of a year or less: sexual abuse in the 2nd or 3rd degree, sexual misconduct, or forcible touching. All other sex crimes are considered felony offenses.

Once you serve out your time for a sex crime, you’ll also likely endure a period of time on probation. While on probation, your rights will be limited. You’ll still have to check up with your probation officer regularly, potentially submit to searches or drug tests, and follow strict guidelines. What’s more, a felony conviction means that you’ll lose certain rights for good. You’ll no longer be able to vote or legally carry a firearm.

Do You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in New York?

If you’ve been accused of any type of sex crime in New York, then it’s in your best interests to speak with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can. Getting convicted of a sex crime will lead to not only time behind bars but other penalties, too. You’ll likely have to register on the public sex offender list, which will detail your home address, photograph, and past crimes.

As you can imagine, having this information public could impact future career and relationship opportunities. To avoid these consequences, it’s recommended that you hire a quality defense attorney who can help you fight your charges.

Request a meeting with our lawyers by leaving your contact details on our online form today!