The Harsh Consequences of Being Found Guilty of Child Enticement, Production of CSAM, and Possession of CSAM
Facing federal charges is one of the most life-changing experiences. This is especially true for cases involving child enticement, production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), or possession of CSAM. When you are accused of all these offenses at once, a conviction could result in some of the harshest consequences in the criminal justice system. Federal prosecutors usually pursue these cases aggressively, and a conviction could result in lengthy prison sentences, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and the permanent loss of reputation. If you or someone you know is facing these charges, it is vital that you understand what is at stake. A recent case of a St. Petersburg man sheds light on just how devastating the penalties of a conviction can be.
The Possible Penalties for Crimes Involving Minors
If a person is convicted on the federal level of crimes involving minors, specifically, child enticement, production of CSAM, and possession of CSAM, they could face some of the harshest penalties in the criminal justice system. Some of the possible consequences of these crimes include;
- A lengthy federal prison sentence. Multiple counts can result in life sentences.
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Loss of certain rights, such as voting rights
- Loss of reputation
- Loss of professional licenses
- Supervised release conditions
The reason these cases carry such harsh penalties is the lasting harm to victims. These harsh penalties are intended not only to punish offenders but also to deter future crimes. Prosecutors and lawmakers often prioritize cases involving child exploitation and seek the maximum penalties.
A Recent Florida Case Example
In a recent case, a federal jury found a man from St. Petersburg guilty of multiple federal child exploitation crimes, whom, for purposes of this article, we will refer to as D.P. The charges against D.P. included;
- Production of CSAM
- Possession of CSAM
- Attempted coercion or enticement of a minor
- Coercion or enticement of a minor
- Penalties for registered sex offenders
D.P. faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing is scheduled for October 2025.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, D.P., who had been registered as a sex offender due to a prior 2009 conviction for possession of child pornography, used a social media app a few years ago to contact a teenage minor. He coerced the minor into creating and sending CSAM and even described in detail the ways he wanted to abuse her. Investigators also found additional CSAM on D.P.’s cellphone, including material showing young children.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Being accused of multiple federal child exploitation offenses does not automatically mean a person is guilty. The United States believes in the principle that someone is innocent until proven guilty, and not the other way round. Sometimes, entrapment may have occurred, a defendant may have been mistaken for someone else, or a victim may be making false allegations. An experienced criminal defense attorney can challenge evidence, build a strong defense, and help ensure the protection of rights.
Contact an Orlando Sex Crime Lawyer
If you or someone you know is facing multiple federal child exploitation charges, contact our experienced Orlando sex crime lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, P.A. for legal help.
Source:
justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/federal-jury-finds-registered-sex-offender-guilty-child-exploitation-offenses
