It is not possible to simply ignore the firestorm surrounding the alleged revelations of sexual assault by an adult on a child reported in several instances recently. Certainly those with children run to hold them close and shake our heads in dismay at the thought that perhaps there is no one left to entrust our children to.

But I will not present the viewpoint of the defense attorney - as I have done so often before and will continue to do as long as I am in practice.

The operative word is - ‘alleged’. Sexual assault of a child may be the most upsetting crime we could imagine but we are required by law not to rush to judgment but instead to follow a course of action that allows the accused his day in court. Indeed, if these persons have committed the crimes for which they are accused there is little doubt that they will be punished. However, unless you are asked to sit on the jury panel - we may follow the story with interest but neither you nor I have any business making sweeping claims of their guilt.

Let the process run its course. The singular principle that an individual is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law is the cornerstone of the best system of justice in the world.

The Sandalwood and Galveston Law Firm of David Breston is experienced in representing persons accused of sexual assault. Contact us at 713-224-4040 or 888-=220-4040.