As we become more and more reliant on our pocket-sized technology, the chance for missteps with grave consequences skyrockets. Younger generations are not immune to this either. A sex crimes investigator was recently interviewed stating that victims of internet luring are getting younger. Consequently, as more children get smartphones, the age of victims gets younger as well. Sending something electronically that might seem harmless up front, can be rapidly twisted into a crime. Contacting an internet luring of a child attorney is therefore critical if you’re facing charges or if you’re unsure about a situation.
Internet Luring of a Child Attorney |Definitions
Colorado law C.R.S. 18-3-306 broadly defines Internet Luring of a Child. Below are the key factors that make for a charge:
-An electronic communication with a child that is 4 or more years younger than the actor (via email, text, phone, social media, etc)
-Description of explicit sexual conduct of any kind is described in the communication
-An invitation to meet in person for any purpose (need not be sexual)
“Child” and Internet Luring
The word child has massive impact on sex crime charges throughout Colorado. Severity of charge, punishments, and sentencing all proliferate when minors are involved. It is essential that you never talk to kids (other than your own) about things that are sexual in nature. And, never electronically exchange sexual material with a minor… period. While this may seem like common sense, the consequences are too severe to leave margin for error. Even accidentally sending a flirty text meant for your spouse can demolish your reputation in the blink of an eye. Prosecutors are quick to balloon situations to seek maximum punishment and demonstrate their conceived prowess. Additional charges such as Internet Sexual Exploitation of a Child are often tacked on to make matters that much worse.
Undercover Sting Operations and Police in Colorado
When pursuing an internet luring of a child charge in Colorado, police need 3 critical factors: 1) proof of electronic communication 2) age of the child involved 3) years separating the child and perpetrator. The undercover sting operations try to establish these critical elements quickly. Police often disguise themselves as a child under 15 years of age in chat rooms. Sometimes however, interaction online with these individuals can be seen as entrapment. This can help your case immensely if police made the initial contact and coerced you into committing a crime you typically would not have taken part in.
Colorado Lawyer for Internet Luring Charges
In conclusion, penalties for a Luring of a Child conviction are severe. Anywhere from 2 to 6 years in prison can be a possibility if your crime involves an intent to meet with the child for sex. In addition, a fine ranging from $2,000 all the way up to $500,000 can apply. Sex offender intensive supervised probation, sex offender registration, and sex offender treatment are also consequences of a conviction. Contacting a skilled internet luring of a child attorney is therefore a must to help fight these charges.
If you or someone you know is facing Internet Luring of a Child charges, act now. Call the defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
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