It only takes one mistake for Ohio residents to find themselves in trouble with the law, especially when it comes to alleged sex crimes.

Earlier this month, an Ohio man was sentenced to a year in prison for sending a nude photo to a 15-year-old girl last spring. His sentence will also include being placed on the sex offender registry for the next fifteen years.

The 34-year-old man pleaded guilty to fifth-degree felony charges of disseminating matter harmful to juveniles and importuning at a hearing in Stark County Common Pleas Court. According to the assistant county prosecutor, they could not prove another charge of pandering obscenity involving a minor, which is a second-degree felony.

According to the news source, the man was arrested on the charges in November.

The girl in this case is reported to have immediately notified her mother of the incident. The man eventually admitted to sending the photo, which was later recovered from his cell phone.

Even allegations of sex crimes can be devastating for an individual. If convicted of the crimes, a person can face serious penalties. Despite the seriousness of the crimes, it is important to remember that individuals are innocent until proven guilty.

Those in Ohio who are facing serious criminal charges would likely benefit from working with an attorney who has experience defending individuals against serious crimes. The attorney can investigate the case, and possibly uncover additional evidence while working towards a favorable outcome. Although individuals facing criminal charges may feel helpless, there are places to turn for help.

Source: The Independent, "Man sentenced for sending nude picture to girl," Dec. 5, 2011