Child Pornography Charges

In Maryland, production, possession, and distribution of child pornography are criminal offenses.

If convicted, you could face years in prison and a mandatory registration as a sex offender. To avoid unfair penalties, consider working with an experienced child pornography lawyer.

A skilled criminal defense attorney could investigate your case, collect important evidence, and build a strong defense strategy. Having qualified legal counsel is key to avoiding the most serious consequences of child pornography charges.

Types of Child Pornography Crimes

Child pornography charges can vary depending on the crime a person is suspected of committing. The main types of charges include the following.

Involving a Minor in the Creation of Obscene Content

This charge refers to situations in which an individual encourages or knowingly allows a child to take part in making obscene materials.

Filming or Photographing a Minor in Sexual Acts

Another charge involves taking photos or videos of a child engaged in any sexual activity or abusive sexual behavior.

Using Technology to Show Sexual Acts Involving Minors

Using a digital device to create or demonstrate visual content or descriptions of minors involved in sexual behavior constitutes child pornography.

Sharing or Promoting Child Sexual Content

Knowingly advertising or trying to distribute any material that shows (or even appears to show) a child in a sexual or abusive act is considered child pornography.

Spreading Personal Information of Minors for Sexual Purposes

This child pornography charge refers to using technology to share a minor’s personal details with the intent to arrange or encourage sexual abuse.

Even if an individual possesses child pornography that they did not create or plan to distribute, they are still committing a crime. A skilled Owings Mills child pornography attorney could explain which charges apply to your situation and what could be done to prevent a conviction.

Penalties for Child Pornography

Penalties in child pornography cases depend on the type of crime and the defendant’s criminal record.

Possession

Simple possession of child pornography in Owings Mills is a misdemeanor. A first-time offender may face up to five years in prison and a fine of $2,500. However, subsequent offenses are felonies and carry more serious penalties.

Production and Distribution

If a person is convicted of producing and distributing pornographic materials involving a minor for the first time, they can face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. Each subsequent offense increases the potential penalty to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Defenses in a Child Pornography Case

Regardless of the initial charge, an experienced child pornography attorney in Owings Mills could craft an effective defense strategy. Some common approaches include insufficient evidence, lack of intent to distribute, and accidental downloads. In some cases, it may be possible to reduce charges from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Discuss Your Child Pornography Case with a Lawyer in Owings Mills

If you are facing child pornography charges, you need to protect your rights. Maximum penalties for possession, production, and distribution can include up to 20 years in prison. Working with a competent child pornography lawyer is key to avoiding unfair punishment.

At Nguyen Roche Sutton, we have a team of dedicated criminal defense attorneys with decades of experience. Contact us to schedule an in-depth case review today.