Understanding the Consequences of Child Pornography Charges in Illinois

 Posted on November 17, 2016 in Sex Crimes

Sex crimes, in general, are severely punished in the state of Illinois. However, those that pertain to children often receive the heaviest of consequences. This includes (but is not limited to) the possession, distribution, and production of child pornography. Of course, not all cases are as clear-cut as they seem. So, if you or someone you love is up against child pornography charges, learn the consequences, along with what you may be able to do to protect yourself from them.

What Constitutes Child Pornography?

The term child pornography is a broad one, covering all types of media that depict a child (anyone under the age of 18) or disabled person engaging in a sexual act or a simulated sexual activity, including any acts involving penetration, oral sex, masturbation, sexual touching or fondling, and/or urination or excretion of a sexual nature. Owning, distributing, purchasing, possessing, creating, sharing, or selling any such content is illegal in the state of Illinois. So is the act of coercing, soliciting, persuading, enticing, or forcing a child or severely intellectually disabled person to create any such content.  

Consequences for Child Pornography in Illinois

All child pornography charges are classified as felony sexual charges. However, the severity of that charge depends upon the defendant’s alleged acts. For example, production of any child pornography images that are not moving pictures may be classified as a Class 2 felony, which carries a consequence of up to 15 years of imprisonment. In contrast, the production of film and other moving pictures may be classified as a Class X felony, which is the most severe felony charge in the state of Illinois. Conviction at this level could lead to anywhere from 30 to 60 years of imprisonment.

It should also be noted that any person convicted of a child pornography charge will be required to register with the state’s sex offender registry. This not only damages your reputation, it can also result in severe discrimination in your community, and may limit your living and employment opportunities.

Aggressive Defense is Critical to Your Case

Because of the impact that a child pornography conviction can have on your life, it is critical to ensure you have an aggressive defense attorney on your side. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, will fight to protect your rights, and your future. Dedicated and experienced, we have more than 25 years of experience in handling sensitive sex crimes. Learn more about how we can help with you case. Call 847-253-3400 and schedule your consultation with our Arlington Heights criminal defense lawyer today.

Sources:

http://www.ksdk.com/news/crime/former-police-officer-faces-child-porn-charges/340818044?utm_content=bufferaf766&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=1876&ChapterID=53&SeqStart=19200000&SeqEnd=20300000

http://www.ndaa.org/pdf/Child%20Pornography%20Possession%20Statutes%203-2010.pdf