Being accused of child abuse is like being accused of rape, or child molestation, or stealing from your friends. It’s the kind of allegation that, even if unproved, tends to linger and have a negative effect on your future.

Anyone accused, and especially convicted, of child abuse in Michigan – whether it’s physical, sexual or emotional – often discovers that they’re treated like a social pariah afterwards. Even if the charges are completely unfounded and later dismissed, or the accused if found to be not guilty, the social stigma can last a lifetime!

A current child sex abuse case makes our point for us!

Nicholas Belkiewicz, a 27-year-old Port Huron Township man was recently convicted of sexually assaulting several minors. At his sentencing hearing, Belkiewicz appealed to the Judge, asking for mercy, and for help. “The only thing I can do is beg and plead with the court … to have mercy on me and give me a second chance at life.” he said.

“All I want is to be able to get the help I need and deserve so I can prove to everyone I’m not this horrible monster.” Belkiewicz also shared some of his tragic history with the court in the hopes of compassion, and clemency. According to Belkiewicz, he was repeatedly sexually assaults by children in numerous foster homes during his childhood. Since then, he’s also been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and clinical depression.

But the Judge wasn’t buying what Belkiewicz was selling.

“I’ve never been more ashamed and sorry for anything that I’ve ever done,” Belkiewicz told the court, “I’m not this type of person. I don’t go around preying on other people’s children.” But the families of the victims, and the Judge, didn’t believe him.

Judge Daniel Kelly sentenced him to anywhere from 63 years and four months, to a maximum of 140 years. Addressing Belkiewicz directly, Judge Kelly said, “I can’t imagine for the life of me why someone with a history of sexual abuse as you, would want to expose any other child (to that). The pleasure you got out of such an act, it doesn’t make sense to anybody. This is just one of the saddest cases I’ve ever seen.”

People convicted of child abuse rarely get pity, or compassion

Child abuse is a crime that elicits disgust, fury and sorrow from most people, but very little in the way of understanding or compassion. People accused of child abuse find that in addition to the charges and allegations, they suffer in the court of public opinion as well! Which is why being accused of abusing a child is one of the most awful things that could happen to anyone. The fear and shame can be overwhelming.

But you don’t have to face this alone. Our tenacious and hard working child abuse defense team offers parents the benefit of a cutting edge defense against all types of allegations and charges. The world is full of overzealous prosecutors, police, and Children’s Protective Services workers, all of whom are only too happy to tear your family apart in the name of one more victory in court. So call 866 766 5245 today, and get the help you need from the people who can make a real difference!