banner
Contact Us
Case Evaluation
close

    UConn Sextortion Lawyer

    After being accused of “sextortion,” working with a knowledgeable student defense attorney is crucial to effectively protect your rights. These types of cases can be complex, and without help from a UConn sextortion lawyer, you have slim odds of securing a favorable outcome.

    What is the Criminal Charge of Revenge Porn?

    “Sextortion” or “revenge porn” refers to someone publishing intimate images sent to them in confidence or using such images to commit an act of extortion. The crime of sextortion has received an upswell of attention from media figures and state-level legislators in recent years. Because of this, law enforcement authorities in Connecticut now harshly prosecute allegations of this nature.

    The term “revenge porn” does not currently appear anywhere in the Connecticut penal code. However, the act of intentionally disseminating sexually explicit images sent in confidence without the depicted person’s consent is a distinct criminal offense under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-189c.

    Importantly, this act is only a criminal offense if 1) the depicted individual is clearly identifiable, 2) not in a public place or commercial setting, 3) suffers harm as a result of the distribution, and 4) if distribution of the material in question does not serve the public interest.

    How is Sextortion Prosecuted in Connecticut?

    Violating C.G.S. §53a-189c is a class A misdemeanor offense, meaning that a conviction could lead to maximum penalties of a one-year jail sentence a $2,000 fine, and / or a period of probation. If someone distributes sexually explicit material that they created or recorded themselves without the consent or knowledge of the depicted party, it is considered “disseminating voyeuristic material.” C.G.S. §53a-189b defines this offense as a class D felony. A UConn sextortion attorney could go into further detail about how cases of this nature often proceed during a confidential consultation.

    What are the Penalties for Bribery Through Sextortion?

    It is a separate crime if someone comes to possess sexually explicit photos or videos that another person took of themselves and attempts to use it as blackmail material in exchange for money, services, or something else of value. As per C.G.S. §53a-122(a), this act constitutes larceny by extortion, which automatically counts as class B felony larceny in the first degree. This crime is punishable upon conviction by a maximum term of 20 years in prison and a minimum term of one year, as well as a maximum fine of $15,000.

    Notably, in accordance with C.G.S. §53a-51, most attempts at criminal offenses may be prosecuted as if the offense had actually occurred. As a qualified UConn lawyer could explain, this means that an alleged attempt at sextortion could still lead to felony penalties, even if the person never actually received anything of value as a result of their actions.

    No matter the specific statute under which prosecutors pursue sextortion charges, being accused of this offense is a serious matter in Connecticut. Without representation from seasoned legal counsel, you may have a difficult time protecting your rights during court proceedings and defending your best interests.

    Discuss Legal Options with a UConn Sextortion Attorney

    Retaining a capable UConn sextortion lawyer is the first step toward successfully fighting back against these serious allegations. At Mark Sherman Law protecting your name and your future are as important to us as protecting your liberty. You can read our over 340 5-star client reviews by clicking here. Call today to schedule a meeting.