As reported by Thomas J. Morgan in the April 30, 2013 edition of the Providence Journal, the Rhode Island State Police arrested eight (8) men for possession of child pornography. The men range in age from 18 to 72 years old. During the arrests, police also confiscated computers.
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 11-9-1.3, possession of child pornography is defined as:
(1) "Child pornography" means any visual depiction, including any photograph, film, video, picture, or computer or computer-generated image or picture, whether made or produced by electronic, mechanical, or other means, of sexually explicit conduct where:
(i) The production of such visual depiction involves the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct;
(ii) Such visual depiction is a digital image, computer image, or computer-generated image of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct; or
(iii) Such visual depiction has been created, adapted, or modified to display an identifiable minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The penalties if convicted of possession of child pornography include a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or imprisoned not more than five (5) years, or both. In addition, sex offender registration is required.
It is also illegal to:
(1) Knowingly produce any child pornography;
(2) Knowingly mail, transport, deliver or transfer by any means, including by computer, any child pornography;
(3) Knowingly reproduce any child pornography by any means, including the computer.
The penalties if convicted include a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or imprisoned for not more than fifteen (15) years, or both. Sex offender registration is also required.
If you or a family member has been charged with possession of child pornography, child molestation or sexual assault, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.