Child Pornography Offense
Sex crimes against children are some of the most sensitive cases. These cases are highly emotional for all parties involved and require a high level of detail to navigate.
Utah’s laws on child pornography can be complex, and require a knowledgeable attorney to interpret statutes, and apply them to your specific case. Specifically, child pornography cases require an attorney who can overcome any bias the jury may have, making you more credible. Choosing the right attorney can mean the difference between an acquittal and a conviction. That’s where Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law steps in.
Utah Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with child pornography, contact Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law. Susanne Gustin has over 28 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney. She has successfully represented clients in sex-crime cases which have gained national recognition.
Susanne’s experience defending clients against the most egregious allegations in front of a jury has prepared her for the unexpected obstacles a trial may present. Susanne Gustin can examine the facts of your case, and find the most effective legal options. Call her at 801-243-2814 to schedule a free, initial consultation.
Child Pornography Information Center
- Child Pornography under Utah Law
- Facts about Child Pornography Investigations
- Additional Resources for Child Pornography
Child Pornography under Utah Law
According to Utah Code §76-5b-201: a person can be charged with a child pornography offense if they sexually eploit a minor. This applies if he or she:
- Knowingly produces, possesses, or possesses with intent to distribute child pornography,
- Intentionally distributes or views child pornography; or
- Is a minor’s parent or legal guardian and knowingly consents to or permits the minor to be sexually exploited as defined above.
Penalties for child pornography committed in Utah could alter a person’s life forever. Unless stated otherwise, child pornography is a second-degree felony punishable by a maximum of 15 years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $10,000. These penalties may intensity according to the details of the case.
According to the Utah statute, it is a separate offense for each minor depicted in the child pornography, and for each time that the same minor is depicted in different child pornography.
Facts about Child Pornography Investigations
When a person is accused of a sex crime, investigation methods may not cross his or her mind; however, the integrity of these methods may work in the defendant’s favor. Below are some little-known facts about child pornography and subsequent investigations.
- Some computer viruses may contain files linked to child pornography. When these types of viruses infect another computer, it may lead to a third party unknowingly possessing child pornography without his or her consent.
- In some circumstances, experts may need to examine an actor’s hard drive to gather evidence.
- In some cases, law enforcement may use entrapment to lead to an arrest. However, this approach may be used to aid in the accused’s defense.
Additional Resources for Child Pornography
Utah Code: Child Pornography – Click this link to view Chapter 5b of the Utah Code which constitutes the Sexual Exploitation Act. The webpage lists elements of the offense and penalties.
Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault (UCASA) – This organization is a source for parents of children who have been sexually abused. Click the link to learn ways you can become involved with UCASA. The webpage also lists resources for survivors such as medical care for survivors and the Utah Sexual Assault Kit Tracking System.
Salt Lake County Child Pornography Attorney
If you have been charged with child pornography or a similar offense, you need a defense attorney with years of experience fighting these allegations. Susanne Gustin not only has experience in sex crimes against children, but she also has a history defending clients accused of various criminal offenses. She is an attorney who does not shy away from difficult litigation and works zealously to defend her clients.
Attorney Susanne Gustin represents clients in Salt Lake County, Davis County, Layton, Bountiful, Clearfield, Layton, North Salt Lake, Centerville, Woods Cross, West Point, and Kaysville. Call Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law at 801-243-2814 to schedule a free, initial consultation and to meet with a qualified criminal defense attorney.
