It seems these days that you cannot be a celebrity without getting into some sort of trouble - and that trouble usually involves sex. The latest celebrity to prove this theory correct is Kobe Bryant, who is accused of raping a 19-year-old college student who worked at a resort Kobe was staying at in Edwards, Colorado on June 30th.

When the alleged victim first claimed that Kobe raped her, he denied even knowing her - and then changed his story to say that yes, he did have sex with her - but it was not rape, it was consensual. After her accusation, Kobe was arrested and charged with Felony Sexual Assault, but was released after posting a $25,000 bond. On July 18th, formal charges were filed against Kobe by Eagle County District Attorney Mark Hurlbert. If convicted, he faces four years to life in prison, or 20 years to life on probation, and a fine of up to $750,000.

Whatever opinion I may have or anyone else may have about this case is irrelevant, because the only people who really know what happened that night are Kobe and his accuser. There is, however, evidence on both sides of the fence that favor each of the two parties wrapped up in this unfortunate mess.

Take Kobe's accuser for instance. Since her accusation three months ago, she has not asked for money, sold her story to the tabloids, or filed a civil suit against Kobe - possibly indicating that this was not a publicity stunt for money. On the flip side, Kobe's accuser has a history of mental issues and once falsely accused an ex-boyfriend of rape. So there are clearly issues on both sides of this twisted fence.

Whoever is right or wrong here, the real victims of this case are the millions of children that looked up to Kobe as a role model. Kobe Bryant holds the distinction of being the youngest player to enter the NBA, he has a very long list of endorsements, including Sprite and Nike - and a net worth of over one-hundred million dollars. He was also looked upon as one of the most clean cut and gentlemanly players in the sport - and was surely someone who showed young children that you can be anything you want to be. Whether his now admitted sexual encounter with his accuser was consensual or otherwise - what does his infidelity say to the children who held him in such high regard?

Celebrities have a responsibility that comes with their star status. Unlike "Joe Schmo," superstars from any genre exist under a microscope and should behave in accordance with the stardom that comes with the fame and fortune they are given. It makes me sick when they take that for granted and feel that they are above the laws, rules - and morals - that the rest of us have to live by. I wish all celebrities would use the starpower they have to show our youth that what they have is something that they truly appreciate and that anyone can have what they have - instead of sending the message that stars can do what they want - to who they want - with absolutely no consequences.