When You Are Up Against A Criminal Charge, You Need A Tough And Seasoned Defense Attorney On Your Side

Texas man faces criminal charges for assault of gay man

On Behalf of | May 17, 2014 | Criminal Defense

An alleged prank by a Texas man went too far and has now landed him in jail. The heterosexual man met a gay man on a dating app and reportedly wanted to play a joke on him because of his sexual orientation. The “joke,” which includes kidnapping and assault, has resulted in federal criminal charges against the 19-year-old.

The man, who has been in police custody since September, faces a $250,000 fine and 10 years in prison. He could face additional charges as well for allegedly beating a 24-year-old man he contacted on meetme.com, a smartphone app. The 19-year-old man reportedly told the other man he was interested in sexual activity and asked him to meet him as his home.

Once the man arrived, he was reportedly beaten and tied up with an electrical cord, according to the Department of Justice. The gay man was allegedly placed in the trunk of the defendant’s car. The defendant reportedly then drove to see friends. They insisted he take the man to the hospital or they would call police. The man was hospitalized for 10 days, as he was treated for multiple skull fractures.

This a serious situation for the defendant, and it is being considered a hate crime because Department of Justice believes it only occurred because the alleged victim is gay.

The defendant is facing serious penalties unless he can present a solid, compelling criminal defense. Perhaps he suffers a mental condition and didn’t understand the severity of his actions. Criminal defense attorneys work diligently to protect the rights of their clients, no matter what the charges may be. Every defendant has a right to a fair trial and an appeal of an unfavorable verdict.

Source: The Dallas Morning News, “Springtown man indicted on hate crime charges” Christina Rosales, May. 15, 2014

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