Arizona law prohibits anyone from possessing, distributing, or producing pornography that includes individuals under the age of 18. If a person distributes this type of material across state lines, that individual will likely be charged with a federal crime.
It is important to note that minors who share photos or videos of themselves or others under the age of 18 may be charged with distributing child pornography. In some cases, a young person who receives a photo of a classmate, friend or significant other may be charged with a crime.
Contact Local Law Enforcement
Those who believe that a website is producing or distributing illegal content should contact local law enforcement. Local officials may then alert state or federal authorities to the potentially illegal conduct, and those authorities will then likely begin an investigation into an individual’s allegations. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation if they believe that a website is breaking child pornography laws.
Consequences
Individuals who are charged with sex crimes may face significant consequences if they are convicted. Typically, those who are convicted of producing or possessing child pornography on their computers face many years or decades in prison. Those who are convicted of these and similar crimes will also likely need to register as sex offenders. Individuals who fail to register or update their sex offender registrations as required may be charged with additional crimes. In addition, those who are required to register as sex offenders may have difficulty finding work or may be restricted as to where they can live.
Contact a Defense Attorney
A criminal defense attorney may be able to help a person prove that he or she did not intend to receive or store images of minor children. This might help an individual earn a full acquittal or favorable plea deal.
