Ridgefield Sextortion Lawyer
If you are facing accusations of sextortion, a Ridgefield sextortion lawyer could explain how state law treats these types of allegations, go over your options for fighting back against your charges, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf in and out of court.
What is Sextortion?
There are a few laws prohibiting threatening to disperse sexually explicit materials without the consent of the subject. A Ridgefield sextortion attorney could offer further clarification about what sections of state law may govern a particular case and what sanctions could accordingly come from a conviction.
First, Connecticut General Statutes §53a-189c defines the “unlawful dissemination of an intimate image” as a criminal offense if 1) the dissemination occurs without the consent of the depicted individual, 2) the depicted individual reasonably thought the material would remain private, and 3) the act of dissemination directly caused harm to the depicted individual. This could involve sending private photos around, or what’s commonly known as “sexting”. If the subject is a minor, you could also be criminally liable for possession of child pornography. To learn more, click here.
Conversely, someone who threatens to unlawfully disseminate sexually explicit material in order to compel the subject of that material to give them money or property may be charged with extortion, which Connecticut General Statutes §53a-119 defines as a form of larceny.
What Are the Penalties for Sextortion?
Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-189c is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by no more than one year in state jail and a maximum $2,000 fine.
Larceny by extortion of any kind is automatically a class B felony under Connecticut General Statutes §53a-122(a)(1), meaning punishments upon conviction could include one to 20 years in prison as well as a $15,000 fine.
Can I Contest Sextortion Allegations?
Regardless of how prosecutors choose to approach sextortion allegations, it is important for potential defendants to remain calm and avoid taking rash actions after learning about an investigation being started or criminal charges being filed. Mass-deleting texts, emails, and other electronic messages in the wake of a sextortion allegation or charge could not only hinder a defendant’s defense strategy, but also leave them facing separate felony charges for tampering with physical evidence under Connecticut General Statutes §53a-155.
Fortunately, there are ways to contest the individual elements of sextortion charges with help from a qualified Ridgefield lawyer. For example, a person cannot be prosecuted under C.G.S. §53a-189c if the intimate image in question stemmed from voluntary exposure or intercourse in a commercial or public setting, if the depicted individual is not clearly identifiable, or if the dissemination of the image “serves the public interest.” An attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on potential defenses you may have.
Seek Help from a Ridgefield Sextortion Attorney
Contacting a Ridgefield sextortion lawyer should be your first priority if you want to pursue a favorable outcome to this kind of accusation. Check out reviews from clients who have worked with the Law Offices of Mark Sherman before at Avvo.com here, and give our dedicated lawyers a call at (203) 358-4700 to learn more.