Sexual exploitation of a child in Lakewood, Colorado involves possession, distribution, or creation of child pornography. These interactions with underage material can lead to years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, substantial fines, strict supervision, and sex offender registration. However, if you’ve been accused or even charged, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re guilty. An aggressive, strategic defense lawyer can analyze the prosecution’s case against you to find inaccuracies, exaggerations, and in some cases, proof of your innocence. Below we discuss sexual exploitation of a child charges in Jefferson County and how our experienced child pornography lawyers can help those facing allegations.
Lakewood Child Pornography Law
Jefferson County’s child pornography law prohibits having, sending, or making underage porn. CRS 18-6-403 is the complex statute that addresses sexual exploitation of a child throughout Colorado. Law enforcement will pursue charges if they have reason to believe someone:
- possessed, distributed, or created images and / or video,
- of a minor under the age of 18 having sex, masturbating, in the nude, aroused, or touching another’s intimate parts or their own,
- for the purpose of someone’s sexual gratification
It is important to note that defendants in child porn cases can be charged both in Colorado and at the federal level. If the materials were distributed or produced through the mail or in interstate or foreign commerce, years in federal prison can result.
How Serious is a Sexual Exploitation of a Child Charge in Jefferson County?
The punishment for sexual exploitation of a child depends on the type and amount of material involved and what was done with it. Specific facts of each case create different sentencing ranges. When a small amount of still images were in a defendant’s possession, a class 5 felony applies. However, 20+ items or any video increases the charge to a class 4 felony. A conviction in these types of cases can lead to:
- a prison sentence of 1 – 6 years,
- fines of $1K – $500K,
- evaluation / treatment,
- sex offender intensive supervised probation,
- and a sex offender registration period of 20 years minimum
Distributing or creating child pornography is a class 3 felony throughout Jefferson, Adams, Denver, and Arapahoe County. These acts can as much as double the prison sentence and increase the fine range up to $750K.
Lakewood’s Top Sex Crimes Attorney
When it comes to sex offenses in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden, Sawyer Legal Group remains the leading criminal defense team for defendants facing allegations. Just because charges are looming doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Perhaps you had no idea the material was on your device, the items weren’t for anyone’s sexual gratification, or the individuals were 18+. Nevertheless, contact our office for help today. We offer free initial consultations, same-day jail visits, and affordable fees with flexible payment options. Your future is worth protecting and our determined defense attorneys will fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t talk to the police about sexual exploitation charges – talk to us. 303-731-0719
Photo by Federico Orlandi