Former Sr. Prosecutors Now Defending Los Angeles Internet Sex Crimes
The term “Internet sex crime” refers to any sex crime that is committed online or with computers. Due to the very technical nature of such crimes, these charges often require experienced lawyers with specific knowledge to prosecute and defend against.
Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP was founded in 1989 by two former deputy district attorneys who previously prosecuted Internet sex crimes. We understand the aggressive tactics and advanced technology the prosecution applies to online sex crimes, and we match them with our own hard-hitting methods and advanced technical savvy.
Child pornography
Manufacturing, viewing, distributing or possessing pornographic materials that display a minor under the age of eighteen is a criminal offense. A substantial number of arrests for Internet sex crimes are related to child pornography.
Obscene material
The Internet makes it easier to pass information from person to person. While this can be a good thing, it can also lead to the spread of what is deemed “obscene material.” This is a subjective term that is typically determined by the three-tiered test established by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973.
Online solicitation
Referred to as importuning, online solicitation remains a primary focus of law enforcement. Luring minors online is a severe offense and has therefore captured the national limelight, with shows like “How to Catch a Predator” creating massive pressure to crack down on this crime.
Sex tourism
It is a criminal act to travel overseas to engage in sexual intercourse with a minor, regardless of the laws governing the foreign country. American tourists suspected of this offense who travel to Asia, India, Europe and Mexico are specifically targeted, with many being arrested upon their return to the United States.
Online adult entertainment
While adult entertainment is legal, strict laws apply to the industry. Performers, website owners and others face criminal charges for violation of censorship and obscenity statutes and for laws governing exposure to minors.
Sexting: what are the legal consequences?
Law enforcement has recently started cracking down on sexting — the sending of sexually explicit material by text messages or through any other form of technology. Sexting is a growing problem in the nation, with a study by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy and CosmoGirl.com reporting that an estimated 20 percent of teenagers have engaged in this behavior.
While sexting was once considered merely a moral dilemma for parents of teens, it has since become the focus of new laws. Under certain circumstances, a minor who receives or sends a message that could be classified as sexting could be slapped with child pornography charges. A new law passed in 2011, however, provides more appropriate penalties — such as suspension or expulsion from school — rather than the sentences associated with a felony conviction.
Learn how our team can represent you in the most challenging charges of Internet sex crimes
For more information about the legal and technical aspects of cybercrimes, call Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP at 888-579-4844 or contact us online. At your free initial consultation, we explain your rights and options. We know that arrests take place 24/ 7, and we are immediately available to help you.
