Can Talking to a Minor on Social Media Be a Crime?

Talking to a minor on social media or through some other electronic medium, such as chat boards and text messaging, can be a criminal offense in the state of Wisconsin. Sexting, for example, means sending a sexually suggestive image or a nude photograph through an electronic medium. In most cases, sexting taking place between consenting adults is not against the law. However, this kind of activity between an adult and a minor through text messaging, chat rooms, or social media can lead to serious criminal charges and penalties.

Sexually Exploiting a Child

Laws in the state of Wisconsin make it against the law to possess, distribute, or create with the intent to distribute a photograph or other visual depiction that shows a minor who is engaged in explicit sexual conduct. Under this law, adults are prohibited from sexting images of a minor who is under 18 years of age throughout any electronic medium. 

In cases where an adult is convicted of sexually exploiting a child, they could face Class C felony penalties. Potential penalties include between five and 40 years of incarceration, along with a maximum monetary fine of $100,000.

Child Pornography Possession

When an adult is in possession of child pornography and shares those images through electronic means (such as by sexting on social media or through text messaging), they could be facing serious felony charges and penalties. An adult may be convicted of this offense if they knowingly view or possess a visual depiction showing a minor engaged in conduct that is sexually explicit. Child pornography possession includes lewd or sexual depictions that an adult sends via social media or text messaging. 

An adult who is convicted of possessing child pornography will face penalties for a Class D felony. Upon conviction, they could receive between three and 25 years of incarceration, along with $100,000 in monetary fines.

Speak to an Experienced Sex Crime Attorney Today

A conviction for a sex crime can lead to serious consequences. Not only may you have to spend time in jail or pay a large fine, but your name could also be added to the sex offender registry for the remainder of your life. Being listed on the registry can make it difficult for you to get a job or find a place to live. 

If you or someone you love has been charged with a sex crime, it is extremely important to have an experienced sex crime defense attorney on your side throughout the entire matter. Call Cohen Law Offices at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online today For a free legal consultation and case evaluation with an experienced sex crimes lawyer