Facing charges of sexual assault or crimes against children can be a bombshell event with potential punishments like imprisonment, hefty fines, and a lasting mark on one's personal and professional reputation. In such dire circumstances, the support of an experienced defense attorney is not just helpful—it's essential. If you face criminal charges in New Jersey, call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or fill out our consultation form now.

Manahawkin Man Sentenced In Toddler's Death

Michael Disporto, 30, received a life sentence without parole for the first-degree murder and a 40-year sentence for aggravated sexual assault of his girlfriend's 23-month-old daughter. In 2016, local police found the toddler unresponsive and took her to an area hospital, where healthcare authorities determined she suffered extensive injuries, which included sexual assault.

The Camden County Prosecutor's Office alleged Disporto sexually assaulted the toddler, caused the injuries that led to her death, and convinced her mother not to seek medical care for her. The mother called emergency responders later that day when her daughter lost consciousness. She passed two days later when doctors took her off life support, and medical examiners ruled the death a homicide caused by blunt force trauma.

Complex and Emotional Legal Terrain

Crimes against children, particularly sexual offenses, carry harsh maximum sentences. Most sexual assault cases in New Jersey are charged as second-degree offenses, but charges are upgraded to first-degree offenses, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $200,000 in fines under certain circumstances:

• Victims are under the age of 13.
• Victims are at least 13 but under the age of 16 when the crime is committed by a parent, guardian, relative, or someone acting in a supervisory role.
• Defendants commit another offense in the act or if they are armed.
• Use of force injuries victims involved.

The prosecution must obtain clear-cut evidence to pursue first-degree charges, and an experienced defense attorney understands the nuances of these cases. They will scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, identify inconsistencies, and explore all possible means of defense. One priority argument will be to determine whether law enforcement conducted investigations properly, ensuring a defendant's rights were not violated during interrogations, searches, and seizures.

Another critical issue of casesinvolving children is that they are often publicized, influencing community sentiment and presenting issues for both the prosecution and the defense. At the same time, one of the foundational principles of the legal system is the presumption of innocence, which can sometimes be a fleeting guarantee. An experienced defense attorney must challenge any assumptions of guilt and protect a defendant's rights.

Mitigating Potential Consequences

Being charged with sexual assault or crimes involving children is a life-altering experience, conviction or not. Regardless of what the evidence indicates before trial, those accused must retain professional assistance to have a fighting chance to resume their lives after the trial ends.

The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team provides dedicated advocacy to ensure the best possible outcome under challenging circumstances. Our team will be your ally in clearing your name from arraignment to the sentencing hearing through the appeals process. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or fill out our consultation form now.