Certain materials are illegal to possess under most circumstances. Although the most common examples are illicit drugs, child sexual assault material also falls under this category. People accused of possessing these materials face severe penalties. Those accused of participating in creating this material can face even harsher punishments.

If you face these severe charges, reach out to a Manchester child sexual assault material lawyer immediately to discuss your case. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys can work to explain the state’s laws, evaluate the strength of the prosecutor’s case, and develop a defense to protect your rights and future.

What is Child Sexual Assault Material Under State Law?

The state’s laws on child sexual assault material are nuanced. According to Connecticut General Statute § 53a-196f, child sexual assault material is material that depicts a person under the age of 16 participating in sexual conduct or being subjected to abuse. This may include masturbation, sexual intercourse, or any exhibition of the genitals in a way intended to sexually stimulate the viewer.

Furthermore, child sexual assault material does not need to be a physical image. While photographs of child sexual assault material are certainly illegal, the statute also covers digital images and videos. A Manchester attorney can further explain how state law defines child sexual assault material.

Defenses for Child Sexual Assault Material Charges

Prosecutors harshly pursue cases involving the possession of child sexual assault material. However, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant knew the material depicted a child under the age of 16 to secure a conviction.

One potential defense strategy may involve disputing whether a defendant knew they possessed illegal material. It may be difficult for a prosecutor to prove this concept at trial without any information about how a defendant obtained the material. Our child sexual assault material lawyers in Manchester could help determine if this defense may apply in a specific case.

The Consequences of a Child Sexual Assault Material Conviction

The possession of child sexual assault material can lead to severe penalties. A conviction for possession in the third degree is always a felony that can result in imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The penalties are steeper for possession in the second or first degree.

In addition, charges related to the creation of this material come with even harsher consequences. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-196a says that enticing, coercing, or otherwise forcing a minor to create child sexual assault material is punishable by a prison sentence of up to ten years. The Manchester attorneys at our firm are ready to help people facing charges related to the possession or creation of child sexual assault material.

Reach Out to a Manchester Child Sexual Assault Material Attorney Today

Possessing any material that depicts a person under the age of 16 engaging in a sexual act is against the law. Producing this material is also illegal and can lead to enhanced penalties. A conviction under the state’s child sexual assault material laws is a felony that will affect the rest of your life and can inhibit your housing, employment, and educational opportunities. It is vital that you fight back to avoid a conviction and preserve your future.

A Manchester child sexual assault material lawyer could help protect your rights and present a persuasive defense in court. This could include disputing whether you possessed the materials in question or whether you knew that the depicted person was underage. Contact Ruane Attorneys now and let us get to work for you.