Texas Federal Defense Attorney for Child Sexual Abuse and Assault Allegations
Allegations involving sexual misconduct with a child are among the most serious criminal accusations a person can face. When these claims fall under federal jurisdiction, the penalties are even more severe, with mandatory prison terms and lifelong consequences if convicted. If you are under investigation or facing federal child sexual assault or abuse charges in Texas, it is absolutely critical that you seek experienced legal counsel immediately.
Federal Child Sexual Abuse Charges in Texas
Sexual offenses involving children are harshly prosecuted at both the state and federal levels. However, certain circumstances automatically trigger federal involvement. These include crimes that occur on federal property, cross state lines, or involve the use of digital or electronic communication.
Sexual abuse or assault charges generally involve accusations of unlawful sexual contact, including intercourse, molestation, or other inappropriate physical acts. Because minors cannot legally consent to sexual activity, any such conduct—real or alleged—is considered a criminal offense.
While Texas law covers most cases, the federal government has jurisdiction when:
The offense occurs on federal property – If an alleged act took place at a military base, federal prison, or on federally managed land, the accused may face charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2243, which criminalizes sexual acts with minors between 12 and 16 when the offender is at least four years older. A conviction may carry up to 15 years in federal prison.
Child sex trafficking is involved – Under 18 U.S.C. § 1591, transporting or recruiting minors for sexual exploitation across state or national borders constitutes a federal crime. If the victim is under 14 or coercion was used, the penalty includes a minimum of 15 years up to life in prison. If the child is between 14 and 18 and the crime did not involve force or fraud, the minimum sentence is 10 years.
Sexual exploitation and pornography – If the accused is alleged to have produced, encouraged, or distributed sexually explicit images or videos of a child, this may result in federal prosecution under 18 U.S.C. § 2251. A single count of production or distribution may result in 15 to 30 years in prison.
The Role of Federal Agencies and Evidence in Sex Crime Cases
Federal investigations into child sex crimes are led by agencies such as the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Marshals. These organizations often spend months collecting evidence, reviewing digital footprints, and conducting interviews before making an arrest. As a result, defendants may already be facing a massive amount of digital, forensic, or testimonial evidence by the time charges are filed.
At The Daredia Law Firm, P.C., we understand how these investigations work. We partner with forensic experts and specialists to challenge the prosecution’s case. This may include questioning the legality of search warrants, disputing digital findings, exposing chain-of-custody errors, or identifying false or misleading statements by witnesses.
The Personal Impact of Federal Sex Crime Allegations
Even before a conviction, being accused of a federal child sex offense can have devastating effects. Your name and image may be publicly tied to the investigation, your employment may be jeopardized, and personal relationships can be permanently damaged. A conviction often results in mandatory sex offender registration, long prison terms, and lifelong social and professional restrictions.
Attorney Sean Daredia takes every allegation seriously. We understand how emotionally charged and complex these cases are, and we work discreetly, professionally, and aggressively to build a strong, fact-based defense on your behalf. Whether the charges involve a misunderstanding, false accusation, or government overreach, we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and uncover the truth.
Strategies for Federal Child Sex Crime Defense
Federal sex crime charges require a tailored approach. Our team at The Daredia Law Firm, P.C. will:
Conduct an in-depth review of investigative procedures and challenge unconstitutional evidence
Work with digital forensic experts to analyze seized devices and data
Cross-examine key witnesses and expose inconsistencies in their accounts
Argue for suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence
Pursue dismissals, reduced charges, or favorable plea deals when appropriate
Advocate fiercely in federal court when trial is necessary
Every step we take is designed to minimize your risk of conviction and help you regain control of your life.
Speak With a Federal Child Sexual Assault Lawyer Today
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal child sexual abuse or assault offense, do not speak with investigators before speaking with an attorney. Your rights, freedom, and future are too important to leave to chance.
Call 817-936-3167 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our legal team. The Daredia Law Firm, P.C. represents clients in Plano, Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, Frisco, Denton, and throughout North Texas in both state and federal courts. Se habla Español.