Possession of Child Pornography in Wyoming – What Are the Laws and Penalties?

A primary section of laws intended to protect children are child pornography laws.

In Wyoming, child pornography laws define the crime of child pornography, as well as the penalties for possession of child pornography.

While this is a tough topic for all involved, it is important that those whom police charge with child pornography also understand the laws, their rights, and how child pornography charges may impact them.

WYOMING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY LAWS

Wyoming Statutes Title 6, Crimes and Offenses §6-4-303, contains Wyoming child porn laws. These statutes give insight into key terms and offenses in this area.

These statutes help us answer the question, What is child sexual exploitation? They also classify the act of possessing child pornography as a felony criminal offense.

The law states in part that a person is guilty of sexual exploitation of a child if, for any purpose, they knowingly:

Cause, coerce, or permit a child to engage in, or be used for, the making of child pornography or any explicit sexual conduct; or
Create, receive, distribute, reproduce, or possess any child pornography.

The same Wyoming child pornography law defines child pornography. It states that child pornography means any explicit sexual conduct involving a child or an individual virtually indistinguishable from a child as a visual depiction including any:

Photograph,
Film,
Video,
Picture, or
Computer or computer-generated image or picture.

Any involvement in child pornography or child exploitation is a serious offense. As a result, the judicial system may impose severe consequences for those convicted of these crimes.

CONSEQUENCES OF VIOLATING WYOMING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY LAWS

When someone fears getting charged with a child pornography violation they understandably are concerned with the consequences if convicted. What are the penalties for possession of child pornography?

The sexual exploitation of a child is a felony punishable in part by:

Significant prison time;
A fine of up to $10,000;
Forfeiture of any property, real or personal, used or intended to be used to commit or to promote the commission of such offense; and
The requirement to register as a sex offender.

The above are only some of the basics of the legal ramifications. Our judicial system provides significant leeway for punishments in this regard. A judge may add additional consequences such as loss of child custody or limitations on the ability to visit with one’s own children.

Offenders also face collateral consequences like the loss of employment, public and media scrutiny, and family upheaval and tension.

WHAT TO DO IF ACCUSED OF VIOLATING WYOMING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY LAWS

Even the potential of being charged with possession of child pornography can be emotionally, socially, and financially taxing. But remember, you do not have to fight this fight alone.

If the state charges you with such a crime, you have rights. Hiring seasoned criminal defense attorneys at a high-quality law firm can help to ensure that your rights are protected.

LAW ENFORCEMENT MUST HAVE A DOCUMENTABLE REASON TO ARREST

In the United States, our laws protect individuals from being arrested based solely on the vague concern of police or a member of the public. Law enforcement must have clearly identified and supported reasons to arrest a person.

ARREST DOES NOT MEAN GUILT

Even once the police arrest a person, it does not mean they are guilty. Remember, in America, citizens are innocent until proven guilty and there is a reason for that. The prosecution must be able to prove criminal charges beyond a reasonable doubt before exacting punishment on citizens. Those charged with a crime have the right to a vigorous defense and should take full advantage of this protection.

GUILT DOES NOT MEAN A LOSS OF RIGHTS

Even if a jury finds you guilty or you plead guilty to violating child pornography laws, you still retain certain rights. Your attorney can help make sure your rights are protected and that sentencing is fair.

Therefore, one of the most important first steps to take after the state charges you with violating child pornography laws is hiring an attorney.

Those accused often react with fear and embarrassment and as a result wait to seek legal help. That is a mistake. When the state charges you with such a serious crime, you need a well-established, reputable criminal defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible.

COWBOY COUNTRY CRIMINAL DEFENSE: YOUR BEST DEFENSE

At Cowboy Country Criminal Defense we work tirelessly to protect people that the state accuses of crimes. We fight for our clients every step of the way. We don’t judge or accuse.

Instead, we mount a defense and stand with our clients to be sure they have the best representation possible.

If you need a criminal defense attorney call us at 307-333-7884, or reach us anytime via our online form.