Federal and Pennsylvania authorities charged a York man with child porn exploitation and possession in April of 2024. The charges arose out of Project Safe Childhood, which is a federal initiative that works to end the exploitation and abuse of children. Federal child porn laws involve long prison terms and registration as a sex offender. Even a first-time offender may receive 15-30 years in prison for production. A repeat offender could face life imprisonment.

If you have been accused of viewing or producing child pornography, you face an enormous amount of legal jeopardy, and you must take action immediately. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online, and we will promptly contact you. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can provide a vigorous defense, protecting your freedom and reputation.

Child Pornography Under PA Law

It is a crime under Pennsylvania law to view or produce child porn, including videotaping or photographing illicit material involving a person under 18. It is a crime to view and intentionally sell this material. The type of illicit content defined as a crime is broad, including any content that is depicted for sexual gratification.

Child Pornography Under Federal Law

If the law and consequences of child porn charges is harsh under PA law, it is even harsher under the federal law. Federal child pornography laws cover the depiction of sexually explicit material involving any minor or a person under the age of 18. The age of consent for sexual activity is not relevant. Material does not necessarily need to depict sexual activity—it must be sufficiently sexually suggestive. While the law is expansive, the penalties are harsh and include a lengthy prison term.

Defenses and Exceptions to Child Pornography Laws

Those accused in Pennsylvania may have several defenses to allegations of child pornography, including:

• Material is educational or scientific in nature.
• The defendant lacked knowledge or intent.
• Material was produced and viewed only by a person under 18 and either depicts only that person or another minor over the age of 12.
• Material viewed accidentally and without intent.

Penalties for Child Pornography Charges in Pennsylvania

Under PA law, child pornography may be a second-degree felony, with up to 5-10 years in prison for the first offense and subsequent offense penalties of up to 10 years. If charges are made federally, even longer prison terms may be involved for production, up to and including life imprisonment.

Sex Offender Registration

A person found guilty of a child pornography charge may be required to register as a sex offender under state or federal law.

The LLF Law Firm Team Is Experienced in the Defense of Sex Crimes

At the LLF Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact that sex crime charges have on individuals and families. An individual accused of viewing or producing child pornography must consult an experienced attorney immediately. Contact the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or submit your details online, and we will contact you.