How do Texas lawmakers and law enforcement agencies punish computer sex crimes?
There’s no question that U.S. citizens have a strong public perception about anyone who is convicted of or even accused of an Internet sex crime. Such crimes are considered particularly hideous, and the stain of a conviction of one of these crimes can last with a person for a lifetime. Not only might someone be looking down the barrel of a long prison sentence, but they could have to face public stigma and scrutiny.
The invention of the Internet opened up many great doors in society, but it also created opportunities for those who wanted to commit crimes to have another avenue to do so. As the Internet became readily available to the public, it felt like the Wild West to some people. Some folks felt as though there were no rules or even laws to govern their behavior while online. Indeed, it took some time for our legislative bodies to craft the laws that would govern certain crimes on the Internet.
What are some computer sex crimes you can be arrested for in Texas?
Some examples of the most common computer crimes one can be arrested and charged with in Texas include possession of child pornography, sending sexually explicit messages or materials to minors, sex trafficking or prostitution, revenge porn, indecent exposure over video or arranging to meet with a minor for sexual contact.
While more offenses can be added to this list, let’s focus on some of the most common offenses that a person can face.
Solicitation of a minor
Most of the crimes mentioned above have specific sections of Texas law that define what they mean and the potential penalties for violators. Take the act of attempting to solicit a minor for sexual activity. This is defined in Section 33.021 of the Texas Penal Code.
The specific definition of the crime is attempting to solicit a minor (someone under the age of 17 years) for sexual purposes. That would include attempting to persuade a minor to meet for sexual contact or giving sexually explicit materials to that minor. It is pretty well defined and can result in between 2 to 10 years in state prison, as well as a fine of up to $10,000 per offense. You may also have to register as a sex offender in the state of Texas.
Texas sex crime laws are almost always defined with this level of precision so as to peel away at any potential “grey area” related to the actions that someone could possibly take against their victims. The whole point is to try to make it as clear-cut as possible for a jury to know exactly what the offender has done and why they deserve to be convicted. An experienced lawyer will know these laws back and forth and work with their client to create a reasonable defense.
Solicitation of a prostitute
Chapter 43 of the Texas Penal Code makes it clear what the state views as the solicitation or promotion of prostitution. Any person who attempts to have a sexual encounter with another person in exchange for payment has committed this class B misdemeanor in the state of Texas. The penalty can be a fine of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in county jail.
A person who compels prostitution and works to get people involved in prostitution is guilty of an even higher offense in Texas. That person is facing a class A misdemeanor and can serve up to 1 year in county jail and pay up to $4,000 for their crime.
Sex trafficking
In Texas, there are severe penalties against people who commit human sex trafficking offenses. Sex trafficking is a crime that can result in up to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
There is also the chance that someone who commits this crime has to register as a sex offender in the state for the remainder of their life. Those are huge and life-altering consequences, and it’s another good reason to seek out a lawyer.
Why consult a Houston sex crime defense lawyer
The right sex crime defense lawyer will work overtime to provide a reasonable defense. As the law evolves around these particular types of crimes, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest changes so that an attorney can adequately protect their clients. The results of any verdict can be massive for all parties involved in these cases, and that’s why talented lawyers are at such a premium.