Exploiting a child sexually on any online platform is a serious crime in Colorado. You could be charged with a felony, which means expensive court fines and even prison time. Not only this, but exploiting a child online is technically a federal offense with even more severe penalties.
If you or someone you know has been charged with exploitation of a child, it’s highly recommended you seek legal counsel. It’s difficult to defend sex charges on your own and the consequences could tremendously impact your life. Hiring an attorney will ensure you have a defense plan before you step foot in a courtroom.
Defense Attorney for Exploitation of a Child in Colorado Springs, CO
A conviction for exploitation of a child could uproot your daily life. You will have to face serious consequences including time in prison and required registry into the Colorado sex offender database. In addition, you could face federal charges depending on the circumstances.
Contact the attorneys at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC to start your defense today. Our team of defense sex crime lawyers have an in-depth understanding of Colorado’s legal system. We can help you navigate the justice process with a sturdy defense. Call (719) 328-1616 today to set up a consultation.
Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC accepts clients throughout the El Paso County area and surrounding counties including Denver County and Arapahoe County.
Overview of Exploitation of a Child in Colorado
- What is the Online Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Colorado?
- What are the Penalties for Online Exploitation of a Child?
- Possible Defenses for Exploitation of a Child Charges
- Additional Resources
What Is Online Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Colorado?
It’s illegal in Colorado to entice a child or to exploit a child online in a sexual manner. Colorado Revised Statues Title 18 Article 3 states you can be charged with exploitation of a child if you:
- Are aware that the victim was a child under the age of 15 and at least four years younger than you; and
- You knowingly invited or enticed the child through an online computer network, telephone network, data network, text message or instant message to:
- Expose or touch themselves in a sexual manner; or
- Expose or touch yourself in a sexual manner in front of the child
What Are the Penalties for Online Exploitation of a Child?
Colorado takes sexual exploitation of children very seriously. You could face a class 4 felony if you’re convicted, which is punishable by:
- Up to 6 years in prison; and
- A fine of up to $500,000
As a condition, the court will require you to register as a sex offender with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) database. The registry will be open to the general public and you may have to notify the community of your status every time you move. Additionally, you will have to disclose your felony conviction on job applications and lose your right to own a firearm.
In some cases, the visual material from the exploitation is produced out of the state of Colorado. This means you may be federally prosecuted under 18 U.S. Code 2251 for sexual exploiting children. If you’re convicted in federal court, you’ll face:
- Minimum of 15 years in prison;
- Maximum of 30 years in prison; and
- A fine determined by court
Possible Defenses for Exploitation of a Child Charges
Allegations of sexually exploiting a child online can jeopardize everything you’ve worked for. The charges can be tricky to defend on your own because of the negative social connotations. In addition, it’s natural for the jury to feel sympathy for the victim because they are a child.
However, if you have strong legal representation you can defend your rights and freedom. An experienced criminal defense attorney can overlook the circumstances of your charges and find any weak points in the prosecutions case.
Listed below are some possible defenses that could be implemented by a skilled attorney.
- You were unaware of the child’s age;
- You never attempted to entice or exploit the child sexually online; or
- The information was gathered in an illegal search and seizure
Additional Resources
Child Sexual Abuse – Visit the official website for the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network to learn more about child sexual abuse. Access their site to learn what constitutes as child sexual abuse, what perpetrators look like, how to protect your child and warning signs.
Internet Sexual Exploitation of a Child Laws – Visit the official website of the Colorado Revised Statutes to learn their laws surrounding exploitation of a child online. Access the statutes to see the penalties, charge specifics and other sex crimes.
Defense Lawyer for Online Exploitation of a Child in El Paso County, CO
If you or someone you know has been charged with online exploitation of a child, it’s imperative you seek a skilled attorney. You will need legal representation to avoid hefty fines and possible prison time. Find that attorney today by calling (719) 328-1616.
Our attorneys at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC have represented numerous people charged with sex crimes, including online exploitation of a child. Call us at (719) 328-1616 to discuss your charges and what to do next. Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC accepts clients throughout the greater Colorado Springs area including Manitou Springs, Fountain and Peyton.