Facing accusations related to Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Greeley and Weld County, Colorado is one of the most serious legal situations a person can encounter. These charges often involve digital evidence such as images or videos, and the consequences, both legally and socially, can be life-altering.
In this post, we break down the different types of charges, the laws involved, and what to expect if you’re being investigated or have already been charged.
What Is Sexual Exploitation of a Child Under Colorado Law? A Greeley Defense Attorney Explains
In Greeley, Colorado, Sexual Exploitation of a Child is defined under C.R.S. § 18-6-403. It includes knowingly:
- Possessing or controlling sexually exploitative material often referred to as CSAM (such as images or videos of minors engaged in sexual conduct),
- Producing or creating such content,
- Distributing, promoting, or offering it to others,
- Accessing such content with the intent to view.
The term “sexually exploitative material” refers to any visual material that depicts a child engaged in actual or simulated sexual conduct. Simply possessing this material, even if you never distributed or created it, can result in felony charges.
Types of Charges for Sexual Exploitation of a Child Based on Conduct in Firestone
Colorado law doesn’t treat all conduct the same. Here’s how the law typically breaks it down:
➤ Possession of Images or Videos
This includes having images stored on a computer, phone, cloud account, or even a USB drive. Merely viewing the material online, even without saving it, may also lead to charges if done with the intent to view.
- First offense (few images): Usually a Class 5 felony
- Large collection or videos: Can escalate to a Class 4 felony
➤ Distribution or Promotion
Sharing exploitative material, whether online, via email, social media, or any other method, is treated more seriously.
- Typically charged as a Class 3 or 4 felony, depending on the specifics.
➤ Production
Producing or directing the creation of sexually exploitative content involving a minor is the most serious form of this offense.
- Almost always charged as a Class 3 felony, which carries the most severe penalties.
Sexual Exploitation of a Child Lawyer in Greeley: What Are the Penalties for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor?
Colorado imposes strict punishments depending on the nature of the offense:
| Felony Class |
Typical Conduct |
Possible Prison Time |
Fines |
Other Consequences |
| Class 5 | First-time possession of few images | 1–3 years | Up to $100,000 | Sex offender registration
|
| Class 4 | Possession of videos or more than 20 images, or distribution | 2–6 years | Up to $500,000 | Mandatory parole
|
| Class 3 | Production or large-scale distribution | 4–12 years | Up to $750,000 | Lifetime registration, strict supervision
|
In many cases, even a non-prison sentence can come with mandatory sex offender treatment, lengthy probation, and lasting damage to your career, relationships, and housing options.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Image by Krishnajith K from Pixabay