Being charged with a computer sex crime is a serious matter. As a result of a conviction, you may face harsh legal consequences and your reputation can potentially be ruined for life. You may also have to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. If that happens, you won't be able to live within a certain distance from a school or church, and you may be required to wear a GPS ankle bracelet. In addition, finding employment and housing will prove to be very difficult.
What are computer sex crimes?
Computer sex crimes often include:
- Child pornography: Under Section 750.145c of the Michigan Penal Code, child pornography charges can result in serious legal consequences, including:
- Possession — Up to 4 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Distribution — Up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $75,000.
- Production, or enticement of a child for production — Up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $125,000.
- Soliciting a minor for sex online: Under Section 750.145a of the Michigan Penal Code, online solicitation of a minor for sex is punishable by up to 4 years in prison and a fine of up to $4,000.
- Distributing harmful images or content to minors online: Under Section 722.675 of the Michigan Penal Code, distributing sexually explicit visual or verbal content to a minor is punishable by up to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Possible defenses for a computer sex crime
Those who knowingly and maliciously commit computer sex crimes should be brought to justice. Using computers and the internet can sometimes be risky. You may have unknowingly committed a computer sex crime just by accessing a computer or the internet.
For example, you may have purchased a used laptop that you didn't know contained illegal content. You may have also spoken to a minor online who claimed to be an adult. Or, you may have been wrongfully accused of committing a computer sex crime that you had nothing to do with.
That's why it's critical that you let an experienced attorney investigate the events that led to your arrest. This may involve hiring a computer technician or forensic expert to find evidence that you weren't the one who committed these crimes (or knowingly did so).
Contact Manley & Manley if you are facing sex crimes
If you're facing computer sex crime charges, it's critical that you take them seriously from the start. It's also critical that you invoke your right to remain silent when questioned by police or investigators. Trying to talk your way out of computer sex crime charges typically makes matters worse. Remember, anything you say can be used against you in court, even if you're innocent.
Instead, consult with an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney at Manley & Manley. Our attorneys know how sensitive your case may be and can work tirelessly to devise a legal strategy to help you fight the charges in court.
We offer free and confidential case evaluations to our clients. Contact us online to find out how we can help.
