It doesn’t take much for an individual to find him or herself at the center of a criminal investigation. In many instances, it only takes the statements of one person. In others, it may be a matter of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Sometimes, though, the evidence can seem insurmountable to a criminal defendant. Yet, even in these situations there may be criminal defense options available to him or her.
One Rochester woman will need to carefully consider her legal options after being arrested and charged with two misdemeanors. According to reports, charges of unlawful imprisonment and child welfare endangerment were levied against the woman after an altercation on a school bus. Police claim that the woman, who was working as a bus monitor, was physically aggressive with a student who has Autism. The authorities state that the bus’s camera shows the student continuing to touch the monitor’s arm, even after being asked to stop. Eventually, the police say, the monitor pushed the student against the bus’s window and held him there with his arm pinned behind his back.
Criminal charges like these are quite serious. In fact, this woman has already seen severe consequences from the allegations. According to reports, she was immediately fired from her job, which can drastically affect her reputation and ability to make ends meet. If convicted, she could face penalties that include jail and fines, not to mention a mark on her criminal record that could be damaging for years to come.
Yet, even if the video evidence against her is valid, this accused individual may still have criminal defense options available to her. For example, she may be able to negotiate a plea deal that allows her to avoid the harshest penalties and get back to her normal life. Depending on the circumstances, she may also be able to discredit the prosecution’s claim. This case, like every other one, is unique. The defense to these charges should therefore be custom-tailored. Oftentimes, a criminal defense attorney can assist with crafting a compelling legal strategy.