Child exploitation is a charge that is specifically unique to the State of Indiana. There is a high probability that a crime that would be prosecuted as child exploitation, would be charged as a much more severe sex related crime in any other state. A conviction for child exploitation potentially comes with the following consequences:
- Prison
- Probation
- Sex Offender Registration
- Restitution
- Community Service
- Loss in Job Opportunities
- Restrictions in Housing
What is Child Exploitation in Indiana?
The Indiana Code § 35-42-4-4 defines two degrees of the crime child exploitation, each with associated punishments. The degree of the crime depends on the specifics of the crime committed, with higher degrees of the charge generally receiving harsher punishments.
Indiana law allows child exploitation to be enforced as a statutory charge. A statutory charge means that this charge can be applied to cases in which the victim is younger than the Indiana Age of Consent, even if the victim willingly engages in sexual relations with the defendant.
Child Exploitation Defined
Child Exploitation in Indiana is a Class C Felony when:
A computer is made available to another person that contains matter that depicts or describes sexual conduct by a child less than 18.
Or,
When an individual knowingly manages, produces, sponsors, creates, disseminates or exhibits (or offering to disseminate or exhibit) matter that includes, depicts or describes sexual conduct by a child under age 18.
A Class C Felony for child exploitation in Indiana comes with a maximum of 4 years in prison; up to a $10,000 fine, probation, therapy, and possible restitution with community service.
Child Exploitation is a Class D Felony when:
There is the intentional possession of materials that depict or describe sexual conduct by a child under 16.
A Class D Felony for child exploitation in Indiana comes with a maximum of 1.5 years in prison; and up to a $10,000 fine, probation, therapy, and possible restitution with community service.
Child Exploitation Charge in Indiana?
Are you or a family member currently being charged with child exploitation in Indiana? It is a serious sex crime to be charged with committing. You need to speak with an Indiana sex crimes attorney as soon as possible. Contact the Law Office of Jesse K. Sanchez at (317) 721-9858 or [email protected] for immediate assistance. Time is of the essence.
