Internet Sexual Exploitation of a Child

Internet sexual exploitation of a child in Jefferson County, Colorado involves using electronic communication to encourage children to behave sexually. Children in this specific offense refers to those age 14 or younger. If someone 4 or more years older than the juvenile electronically importunes, invites, or entices them to expose or touch themselves, damaging criminal charges can follow. Securing an experienced sex crimes attorney is crucial for defendants facing these allegations, as ramifications for this offense in Colorado are severe. Below we discuss internet exploitation in further detail and how we can help those accused.

Jefferson County Internet Sexual Exploitation of a Child Law

Jefferson County's internet exploitation law prohibits specific electronic communication with anyone under 15. CRS 18-3-405.4 defines the elements of this sex offense throughout Colorado. You commit internet sexual exploitation of a child in Golden, Arvada, or Lakewood if you:

• knowingly importune, invite, or entice,
• a minor 14 or younger,
• via electronic communication,
• to expose or touch their intimate parts, someone else's intimate parts, or watch you do so

This law prohibits adults 18 and older from seeking phone sex or virtual sex with children. Due to the 4 year age difference, it can also impact teenagers who aren't careful with their smartphone and tablet use. Direct messages, text messages, and video chats that encourage sexual behavior are very risky.

What are the Penalties for Sexually Exploiting a Child Over the Internet in Colorado?

Each sexual exploitation case is different. Internet exploitation in Colorado is a class 4 felony. A conviction can result in:

• up to 6 years in prison,
• fines of $2K - $500K
• sex offender registration,
• costly evaluation / treatment

This offense on your record coupled with the requirement to register as a sex offender can be especially difficult to overcome. Defendants often face trouble finding employment, renting a place to live, and being approved for bank loans. Community members are also know to harass or isolate registered sex offenders based on harmful assumptions that they're child predators or pedophiles.

Internet Sex Crime Defense in Jefferson County

There is a lot on the line when it comes to internet sex crimes in Colorado. You need the very best criminal defense attorneys in Lakewood by your side at each step in the process. We have decades of combined experience navigating internet sex crime charges and are prepared for your unique case. Perhaps you didn't know or believe the the minor's age, there wasn't encouragement to show intimate parts, or police misconduct occurred. That said, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans so that obtaining a private defense attorney is a reality for the accused.

Don't talk to the police about internet sexual exploitation of a child - talk to us. Sawyer Legal Group, LLC 303-830-0880.

Photo by Jonah Pettrich