Brett Wentz has distinguished himself in New Hanover and Pender Counties. Over the past decade, he has defended individuals in a wide range of sex‐related cases. Brett’s track record includes multiple pretrial dismissals when evidence was obtained in violation of constitutional rights, as well as acquittals in high‐profile jury trials where prosecutors could not definitively prove intent or identity. His familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and forensic protocols allows him to identify weaknesses in the State’s case that other attorneys might overlook.

Brett’s defense approach is swift and thorough: upon retention, he immediately investigates, obtains all discovery materials, and enlists digital forensic experts to analyze electronic devices. By challenging search warrants, cross‐examining forensic analysts, and presenting alternative explanations of alleged conduct, Brett consistently preserves his clients’ freedom and reputations. When your future is on the line, you need a sex crime attorney who knows how to dismantle the prosecution’s case—Brett Wentz delivers that defense.

How to Handle a Sex Crime Charge in New Hanover and Pender Counties

Sex crime investigations frequently begin with a single phone call to law enforcement, a school report, or a tip from a neighbor. If you learn you are under investigation, do not speak to detectives or prosecutors without an attorney present—anything you say can be used to establish intent or corroborate a complainant’s statement. Immediately preserve all electronic devices (phones, laptops, tablets) and inform your lawyer if any government agent seeks to seize them.

Once retained, Brett Wentz can send private investigators to interview witnesses—often uncovering recanted statements or consensual contexts before the State files charges. He also retains certified digital‐forensic experts to verify whether incriminating files were planted by malware, shared without knowledge of their contents, or misidentified by overworked crime labs. In many cases, a single motion to suppress evidence (for example, challenging a warrant that lacked particularity regarding search parameters) can cripple the entire prosecution.

If arrest occurs, the priority is securing reasonable bond conditions—often requiring customization so you can continue working, attend counseling if needed, or maintain parental responsibilities. Brett will negotiate pretrial conditions, such as avoiding minimal restrictions or resolving no‐contact orders that can otherwise lead to extended detention.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

Short answer: absolutely. Convictions for sex offenses carry not only prison time and hefty fines but lifelong collateral consequences—mandatory registration, employment restrictions, and social stigma. Even cases that seem “he said, she said” can hinge on nuanced legal issues: improper lineups, flawed DNA testing, or failure to advise Miranda rights.

A skilled sex‐crime attorney will:

• Immediately Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent. Preventing inadvertent incriminating statements during custodial interrogation.

• File a Motion to Suppress Evidence if law enforcement conducted illegal searches of your home, car, or electronic accounts without a valid warrant.

• Engage Digital Forensics Experts to examine seized devices, distinguishing between actual possession of illicit images and unauthorized remote access or file sharing.

• Interview Key Witnesses Rapidly, before their memories fade or they are influenced by prosecution or advocacy services.

• Challenge Eyewitness Identification Procedures, exposing suggestive lineups or mistaken identity—especially in cases involving cross‐racial identifications.

• Negotiate Favorable Plea Agreements when dismissal is unlikely, advocating for reduced charges or diversion programs that minimize registry obligations.

• Prepare a Comprehensive Trial Defense, incorporating expert testimony on consent, age verification, or forensic reliability to cast reasonable doubt.

Delaying until the first court date is too late. The sooner you consult a specialized sex crime attorney, the stronger your chance to have charges dismissed or significantly reduced.

Can Sex Charges Get Dropped?

Yes—under limited circumstances, sex crime charges can be dismissed before trial. Prosecutors must prove every element of the offense—such as lack of consent, age discrepancies, or intent to commit a prohibited act—beyond a reasonable doubt. If Brett uncovers critical issues—such as improper custodial interrogations, medical‐examiners’ reports containing inconsistencies, or evidence that key witnesses have recanted—the District Attorney may opt to drop charges rather than risk an acquittal at trial.

In some jurisdictions, diversion programs exist for specific offenses—especially first‐time, low‐level indecent exposure or consenting adult cases. By completing mandated counseling, restitution to any alleged victim, and demonstrating ongoing good behavior, defendants can sometimes achieve case dismissal and avoid registry. However, these programs are tightly constrained: once charges are filed and discovery is complete, eligibility often disappears.

A skilled sex‐crime lawyer will:

• File Pretrial Motions challenging interrogations, lineup procedures, or access to forensic evidence.

• Retain Expert Witnesses—such as forensic psychologists to evaluate consent, victims’ credibility, or mental capacity issues.

• Investigate Digital Evidence to show alleged images were not created or knowingly possessed by the accused.

• Negotiate Restitution & Counseling when diversion is an option, presenting a rehabilitative plan that serves the public interest.

Early intervention is critical. The sooner an attorney challenges the prosecution’s evidence, the greater the likelihood that sex crime charges will be reduced or dropped entirely.

Need Some Guidance?

If you have any further questions about our process for defending violent crimes (have a look at our FAQs) or need something case specific, feel free to reach out. I am always happy to review a case and give you honest feedback on where you stand and how it should be addressed. I handle cases out of the following North Carolina areas: All of Pender County (Hampstead, Topsail, Burgaw, Surf City, Atkinson) and New Hanover (Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Ogden, Monkey Junction).