What are the Penalties for Child Pornography in Utah?

 Posted on October 27, 2022 in Sex crimes

Utah is known for being a very family-friendly state, and its laws against sexually exploiting children in video and photographs are strict and highly punitive. The criminal record of those convicted of possession, creation, or distribution of child pornography can be devastating, requiring lifetime registration as a sex offender and the many unpleasant consequences that come along with that. If you are facing charges of sexually exploiting a child, get help from a Utah sex crimes defense attorney right away.

What is Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in Utah? 

The law that applies to the sexual exploitation of a minor specifically relates to the production, possession, and distribution of child pornography. A child’s parents can also be charged under this law for knowingly allowing their child to be depicted in pornographic images or videos. Even if the child was not actually involved in sexual conduct, simply depicting the child as if he or she were is against the law.

An essential part of the law is that the accused did their actions knowingly; it may, under certain circumstances, be possible for an attorney to argue that you are not guilty because you did not knowingly view child pornography. Claiming not to know the age of the victim is not a viable defense.

The consequences for sexual exploitation of a minor in Utah are severe because they are always prosecuted as felonies. Each child in the pornography constitutes a separate offense, and each time the same child is depicted in separate videos or images also constitutes a separate offense. Each offense carries fines of up to $10,000 and up to 15 years in prison, and felons convicted of this crime must register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives.

Do I Need a Lawyer if I Am Being Investigated for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor?

Some people believe they do not need an attorney until they have actually been charged with a crime. Others believe they would be better off trying to defend themselves rather than hiring an attorney. Both of these beliefs are mistaken and could result in spending much more time behind bars.

Attorneys with experience defending against allegations of sex crimes know the law and are skilled at defending the accused. Furthermore, your actions during an investigation could cause police to get information from you that they might not be able to get if you had an attorney advising you. The consequences of sex crime convictions are serious and can affect you for the rest of your life. Do not take risks - contact an attorney.

Call a Salt Lake City Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer Now

If you are being charged or investigated for possession, distribution, or creation of child pornography, it is essential to retain the services of a Davis County sex crimes defense attorney right away. No matter what our clients are charged with, our only concern is making sure their Constitutional rights are protected. Call the offices of Collins Rupp, P.C. today at 385-777-2753 to schedule a free consultation.

Source: 

https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter5b/76-5b-S201.html