If victims refuse to testify do they get off scott free?

[starfishandlegos]

Hi - I have a legal Question. Thanks in advance for any help!!!!

If a victim refuses to testify/press charges will sexual perpetuators get off scott-free?

Basically a 15 year old had a sexual relationship with a school principal. It has even made the local news. Principal's wife caught them... and the principal himself stated publicly to me and several others that he was very sorry for what he did. However, the 15 year old is denying it happened and obviously won't press charges or testify. To add to the drama, she (the victim) is actually homeless and not living with parents so obviously her parents aren't going to press charges. Is he going to get off with no jail time?

 

[Laughing]

Likely, depends on the state & county of the crime.

This case was dropped, AFAIK, because the victim declined to testify. How is the prosecutor's office supposed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt without a witness to the crime? Defense attorney's Easy Street.

Rice resigns as principal while case works through courts

NO idea if this is the case you've mentioned.

jmho ymmv lrr

 

[Satchie]

IMO if the principal has confessed, as per the OP, and if his wife will testify what she witnessed, I don't think the victim's testimony is required.