Unfortunately it happens all the time. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram do not have the manpower to fact check all of the accusations made against people in posts and stories.
No, they are protected from liability by the First Amendment as well as applicable state and federal laws. There are legal mechanisms to force them to take down these defamatory posts, however.
However, you can sue the person who falsely accused you of rape or sex assault, or anyone who reposts, or re-tweets the false accusations. In Connecticut, you would be permitted to sue them for defamation, libel, false light, infliction of emotional distress, and attorneys’ fees.
While the law allows for the presumption of innocence (meaning you’re innocent until proven guilty and you have the absolute right to remain silent), you need to seriously consider whether it will be beneficial to sit down with Connecticut sex crimes detectives and answer all their questions. This is why it’s critical to meet with a top Connecticut rape and sex crimes lawyer attorney, or click here, before making this decision.
Again, not until you’ve consulted with a Connecticut sex crimes attorney. If you are innocent of the Connecticut rape accusations, then it can be very beneficial work with Connecticut special victims unit detectives and provide them with as much information, data and evidence as possible to prove your innocence. Remember, all police need to arrest you for sexual assault first degree in Connecticut is probable cause to believe the crime occurred. This burden of proof is much less than the burden required to convict a defendant at trial—which is guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
False sex assault cases and accusations are extremely challenging, both on a law enforcement level and emotionally, for you and your family. If you’ve been wrongly accused of sex assault, or are being wrongly slandered or defamed for rape on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, call one of the sex crimes attorneys at Mark Sherman Law today. You can read certified client reviews from our former clients by clicking here.