Hays, kansas – Aramist David McCottry, age 19, was recently taken into custody on Friday facing two counts of alleged aggravated indecent liberties with a child. This arrest occurs shortly after a previous bond was revoked, and as he was already facing multiple charges from an earlier incident.
Previous Legal Issues
Table of Contents
- 1. Previous Legal Issues
- 2. additional Misdemeanor Charges
- 3. Understanding Aggravated Indecent Liberties
- 4. Frequently Asked Questions
- 5. What is the potential range of penalties under Kansas Statute 21-3501 for child sexual offenses?
- 6. Hays Resident Arrested on Bond for Alleged Child Sexual offence
- 7. Details of the Arrest & Charges
- 8. Understanding Kansas Child Sexual Offense Laws
- 9. Key Aspects of Kansas Statutes (21-3501)
- 10. The Investigation process: What to Expect
- 11. Resources for Victims and Families
- 12. Legal Depiction & Due Process
- 13. Reporting Suspected Child Abuse
Records indicate that McCottry’s bond was revoked on August 29th. He had initially been released on a $15,000 bond in connection with a separate case involving a minor. The earlier allegations centered around an event that transpired around May 18th.
Investigators allege that McCottry utilized the social media platform Snapchat to solicit a minor’s involvement in the dissemination of marijuana. Consequently,he was arrested in May and charged with distribution of marijuana (between 25 and 450 grams),contributing to a child’s misconduct by encouraging a felony,and employing a communication device to facilitate a felony drug violation.
additional Misdemeanor Charges
Along with the felony charges, McCottry also confronts three misdemeanor counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct. These charges specifically pertain to actions allegedly encouraging a child to become, or remain, a child needing care. A preliminary hearing regarding the May charges is currently scheduled for september 15th.
Authorities are currently withholding specific details concerning the new allegations of indecent liberties, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Hays Deputy Police Chief Tim Greenwood confirmed that the recent case remains under active investigation.
Did You Know? According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports of online enticement of children have been steadily increasing in recent years, highlighting the need for vigilance and education.
| Charge | Date of Alleged Offense | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child | Recent (date unspecified) | Under Investigation |
| Distribution of Marijuana (25-450 grams) | Approximately May 18 | Preliminary Hearing Scheduled (Sept. 15) |
| Contributing to a Child’s Misconduct (Felony) | Approximately May 18 | Preliminary Hearing Scheduled (Sept.15) |
| Using a Communication Facility in a Felony | Approximately May 18 | Preliminary Hearing Scheduled (Sept. 15) |
| Contributing to a Child’s Misconduct (Misdemeanor) | Approximately May 18 | Preliminary Hearing Scheduled (Sept. 15) |
Pro Tip: Parents and guardians should familiarize themselves with the safety features available on social media platforms and have open conversations with their children about online risks.
Understanding Aggravated Indecent Liberties
Aggravated indecent liberties with a child is a serious crime with severe legal ramifications. The specific definition of this offense varies by jurisdiction, but generally involves unlawful sexual contact or exploitation of a minor. Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences and registration as a sex offender.
The increasing use of technology, like Snapchat, in such cases presents unique challenges for law enforcement.Digital evidence can be crucial in investigations, but also requires specialized expertise to collect and analyze. The Department of Justice’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section provides resources on investigating cybercrimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What constitutes aggravated indecent liberties with a child? This involves unlawful sexual contact or exploitation of a minor,with penalties varying by jurisdiction.
- What are the potential penalties for distributing marijuana? Penalties for drug distribution depend on the amount of the substance and the applicable state and federal laws.
- What is “contributing to the delinquency of a minor”? This generally refers to actions that encourage a child to engage in illegal or harmful behaviour.
- How are social media platforms involved in these types of cases? Social media platforms can be used to facilitate illegal activities, such as the distribution of drugs or the exploitation of children.
- What resources are available for parents concerned about online safety? Organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) offer valuable resources and guidance.
What are your thoughts on the role of social media in these cases? Do you believe current laws adequately address online exploitation of children?
Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.
What is the potential range of penalties under Kansas Statute 21-3501 for child sexual offenses?
Hays Resident Arrested on Bond for Alleged Child Sexual offence
Details of the Arrest & Charges
A Hays resident has been arrested and is currently held on bond following allegations of a child sexual offense.While details are still emerging, preliminary reports indicate the arrest stemmed from an investigation initiated by the Hays Police Department.The suspect’s identity is being withheld pending ongoing legal proceedings and to protect the alleged victim.
Charges Filed: The specific charges remain sealed to the public at this time, but are understood to relate to offenses against a minor. These charges typically fall under Kansas statute 21-3501, which covers various forms of sexual offenses involving children.
Bond Amount: The bond has been set at[InsertBondAmount-[InsertBondAmount-Requires Actual Data], reflecting the seriousness of the allegations. Bond conditions may include restrictions on contact with minors and potential electronic monitoring.
Date of Arrest: The arrest occurred on[InsertDateofArrest-[InsertDateofArrest-Requires Actual Data].
Location of Arrest: The arrest took place at[InsertLocationofArrest-[InsertLocationofArrest-Requires Actual Data].
Understanding Kansas Child Sexual Offense Laws
Kansas law takes a firm stance against crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children.Penalties for these offenses are severe, ranging from lengthy prison sentences to lifetime registration as a sex offender.
Key Aspects of Kansas Statutes (21-3501)
Aggravated Criminal Sodomy: This carries a significant prison sentence, particularly if the victim is under a certain age.
Sexual Battery: Defined as intentional and unwanted sexual contact, penalties increase based on the victim’s age and the circumstances of the offense.
Exploitation of a Child: This encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including the distribution of child pornography and online enticement.
Statute of Limitations: Kansas has specific rules regarding the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases, often extending beyond the victim’s 18th birthday.
The Investigation process: What to Expect
Investigations into alleged child sexual offenses are handled with extreme sensitivity and thoroughness. Law enforcement agencies prioritize the safety and well-being of the child victim.
- Initial report: The process typically begins with a report to law enforcement or the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF).
- Forensic Interviews: Specially trained forensic interviewers conduct interviews with the child victim, utilizing techniques designed to minimize trauma and elicit accurate information.
- Evidence Collection: Evidence may include physical evidence, digital evidence (from computers, phones, and online activity), and witness statements.
- Arrest & Prosecution: If sufficient evidence exists, an arrest is made, and the case is presented to the District Attorney for prosecution.
- Court Proceedings: The legal process involves arraignment, preliminary hearings, potential plea bargains, and, if necessary, a trial.
Resources for Victims and Families
Navigating the aftermath of alleged child sexual abuse is incredibly challenging. Numerous resources are available to provide support and assistance.
Kansas DCF (Department for Children and Families): Offers protective services and support for families. https://www.dcf.ks.gov/
Kansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault (KCSA): Provides crisis intervention, advocacy, and support services. https://www.kcsacrisis.org/
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC): Offers resources and support related to child sexual exploitation. https://www.missingkids.org/
Local Mental Health Services: Therapy and counseling are crucial for both victims and family members. Search for qualified therapists specializing in trauma-informed care in the Hays area.
Legal Aid: Organizations offering free or low-cost legal assistance to those who qualify.
Legal Depiction & Due Process
It is crucial to remember that an arrest is not a conviction. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Right to Counsel: The accused has the right to legal representation, and if they cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed by the court.
Due Process Rights: The accused is entitled to due process of law, including the right to a fair trial, the right to confront witnesses, and the right to present a defense.
Importance of a Strong Defense: Given the severity of the charges, securing experienced legal counsel specializing in criminal defense and sexual offense cases is paramount.
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, it is your legal and moral obligation to report it.
Kansas Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-922-5330
Hays Police Department: [InsertHaysPoliceDepartmentPhoneNumber-[InsertHaysPoliceDepartmentPhoneNumber-Requires Actual Data]
* Online Reporting: Many counties and states offer online reporting options for
