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Pornography Crimes: Definitions And Punishments

Being accused — not even officially charged — of a child pornography crime can turn your life upside down, leaving you a stranger in your own house and a pariah in your community.

Once charged, you face a conviction accompanied by the harsh punishments laid out in Florida and federal laws for sex offenses.

The bottom line: If you are accused of having or distributing child pornography or have reason to believe you are on law enforcement’s radar, you need the help of a defense attorney immediately.

Fight back. Call 813-440-2347 anytime for a free consultation with O’Brien Hatfield, P.A..

Florida Child Pornography Laws

The law in Florida bans a number of actions related to minors and pornography, including:

  • Promoting a “sexual performance by a child:” This includes filming, directing, recording or producing a sexual performance of a child.
  • Distributing child pornography: This includes anyone who sells, lends, gives away or otherwise shares illegal materials.
  • Possession of child pornography: This includes possessing or viewing children engaged in sexual conduct. Someone who possesses more than one copy of the same performance is likely to be charged with distributing, with the prosecution pointing to ownership of multiple copies as signaling intent to distribute.

Pornography charges can quickly multiply, with each image, video, file or other form of media resulting in additional counts as well as a corresponding increase in penalty upon conviction.

Florida Child Pornography Sentences

  • Promoting a “sexual performance by a child” or distributing child pornography: Each count can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Possession of child pornography: Each count can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Protect Your Rights

At Mark J. O’Brien, we have obtained the best possible outcomes for people facing charges involving child pornography and the Internet. Don’t let a misunderstanding put you behind bars; contact us for a free consultation with a lawyer.