The Orlando-Sentinel is reporting that charges against a University of Central Florida student for the alleged rape of an 18-year-old female he met through the online dating service Match.com have been officially dropped. Prosecutors allegedly dropped the case because there was a strong defense for consent between the two parties.
The 23-year-old man was arrested last month after the woman reported she was supposedly sexually battered after the pairs second date. She also told Seminole County deputies the man drove her to the pharmacy and allegedly forced her to buy and swallow the morning after pill.
The man was arrested May 16, jailed for a night and released on $10,000 bond.
Prosecutors formally dropped the charges against the man a week and a half ago.
This case is a prime example of how consent can play a huge factor in a rape case and why it is important to retain sound legal counsel to help with your case. All rape cases are unique and require thorough investigation.
The state of Florida is home to many college and university cities and towns, which can lead to many students finding themselves vulnerable to sex crime charges from one-night stands or even unsuccessful dating ventures. Most people are familiar with what rape is, or in Florida’s term sexual battery. It is reported that rape is one of the most under-reported crimes in the United States, but it is also one of the most falsely accused crimes as well. It is important to understand that anyone can make a rape accusation against someone else, which can severely ruin a well-earned reputation, career and lifestyle.
The issue of consent surrounds any type of date rape charge between two adults. Often, drugs and alcohol play a part in these types of cases where the line of consent is blurred, which can result in a rape charge. However, by hiring a skilled Florida Rape Defense Attorney at Whittel & Melton early on, we can ask the right questions to help you win back your freedom.
If you are facing rape charges in the Orlando-area or throughout the state of Florida, contact the Florida Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers online or reach us toll-free at 866-608-5529.