An accusation of interacting with child pornography can have devastating consequences in Elbert, Lincoln, and Douglas County. In an effort to crack down on alleged child predators, law enforcement uses everything at their disposal to locate and gather evidence of the possession, distribution, or creation of child porn. Usually involving behaviors online, electronic devices and storage are of particular interest during an investigation. Whether you or a loved one have been contacted by police, it is critical that no statements are given and a Douglas County child pornography lawyer is contacted right away.
Child Porn is Charged as Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Colorado
Colorado law prohibits having, sending, and making sexual material involving anyone 17 or younger. The reality is teens are likely sending this material back-and-forth to one another more often than many would like to admit. However, as soon as a person 18 or older is the recipient, sender, or creator, serious felony charges apply. Law enforcement will pursue sexual exploitation of a child charges if they believe you:
- possessed, distributed, edited, or created,
- sexually explicit material,
- showing a minor under 18,
- engaging in sexual behavior(s)
The captured behaviors can include touching private parts or nudity to oral sex or intercourse (penetration). This includes both images and video that show these behaviors.
Jail Time for Child Pornography in Douglas County
Often someone accused of sexual exploitation wants to immediately know how bad the consequences are. It is important to note that every case is different and penalties for a conviction will depend on facts of the situation, as well as other factors. At minimum, sexual exploitation of a child is a class 5 felony, potentially leading to:
- a prison sentence of 1 – 3 years,
- fines of $1K – $100K,
- evaluation / treatment,
- supervised probation or parole,
- sex offender registration (minimum of 20 years)
Cases involving possession of 20 or more images or any video are a class 4 felony, carrying up to double the prison sentence. Furthermore, any distribution or creation of child porn is a class 3 felony. Defendants in these scenarios can be sentenced to a Colorado prison for a period 4 – 12 years.
Hiring a Douglas County Child Pornography Lawyer
Allegations of sexual exploitation of a child leave many defendants feeling like they have nowhere to turn. However, just because you’ve been charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Prosecutors must prove each and every element beyond a reasonable doubt, which is sometimes easier said than done.
Maybe you didn’t know you were in possession of the material, the images weren’t for anyone’s sexual gratification, or those shown in the material were 18+. Nonetheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation. Our criminal lawyers can speak with you over the phone or make a jail visit to discuss your case. With affordable fees and flexible payment plans, Sawyer Legal Group makes determined, qualified representation a reality for those facing sex crime charges throughout Castle Rock, Parker, Highlands Ranch, and Lone Tree.
Don’t talk to police about child porn charges – talk to us. 303-265-1950
Photo by Sora Shimazaki
