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Very well put. I wonder if the reason people try to support an accused friend by denying the allegations, is because alternative forms of support haven't occurred to them.

For example, if the accused continues to protest the accusation, a good friend might offer to help the accused bring the truth to light.

Or if the accused is clearly guilty, a good friend might offer to help the accused find appropriate ways to make restitution, and/or offer emotional/logistical support if the accused will be punished.

It could be mutually exclusive, if you think the expected punishment for being found guilty is unfair and disproportionate to the "crime".

Thank you for adding some nuance to my statement wit a good point. I'll have to keep that in mind (supporting a friend or family member and holding them accountable for things they did are not mutually exclusive ideas)