Colorado’s child pornography laws make it unlawful to possess, create, or send sexually explicit photos or videos of anyone under the age of 18. Known as Sexual Exploitation of a Child, this felony sex offense has devastating consequences if convicted. With daily use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops, it is essential that users exercise caution regarding what they’re looking at and where it’s being sent. Contact one of our skilled sex crimes attorneys today if you’re facing accusations or charges surrounding child pornography.
Sexual Exploitation Meaning in Denver
The violations of sexual exploitation of a child are found in CRS 18-6-403. You commit this internet sex crime in Denver, Lakewood, or Aurora if you:
- possess, produce, or distribute,
- sexually exploitative material (pictures, clips, videos, etc),
- showing anyone 17 or younger engaging in sexual acts
This particular statute is especially complex. The term sexual acts is broad and can include many different behaviors including photos or videos that show suggestive fondling, nudity, arousal, masturbation, oral sex, or intercourse. Encouraging, permitting, or arranging for a juvenile to participate in these sexual acts intending to record, photograph, or distribute the material is also sexual exploitation of a child in Colorado.
Child Exploitation Sentencing in Colorado
Consequences of conviction for sexual exploitation of a child in Denver depend on several different factors. Below is a brief outline of potential ramifications:
- possession of a small amount of images (<20) = class 5 felony (1-3 years in prison, up to $100,00 in fines)
- possession of 20+ images or any videos = class 4 felony (2-6 years in prison, up to $500,000 in fines)
- production or distribution of child porn = class 3 felony (4-12 years in prison, up to $750,000 in fines)
An additional and particularly impactful penalty of a child pornography conviction in Denver is the requirement to register as a sex offender. As an adult, this will last for a minimum of 20 years. A great deal of your personal information will be made available to the public, often causing widespread paranoia for those in your community. Registered sex offenders also often face difficulties finding and maintaining stable employment and adequate housing.
Denver Child Pornography Attorney
If you’re being investigated for sexual exploitation of a child in Colorado, don’t lose hope. This doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Don’t talk with police or provide investigators with statements of any kind. Instead, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. We offer a free initial consultation where we will carefully analyze your unique situation and suggest next steps. If you or someone you know has already been arrested, we offer same-day jail visits as well. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make strategic defense a reality for those facing sex crime allegations throughout Colorado.
Charged with sexual exploitation of a child in Colorado? Be smart. Contact the skilled sex crime lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Tyler Franta
