Revenge porn, the sharing of someone’s intimate images without consent, can leave victims deeply hurt and violated. But what about the accused? False accusations of revenge porn can be equally damaging.
Someone convicted of revenge porn may face many months of jail time and significant fines. For a class 1 misdemeanor, they could spend up to 18 months in prison and pay as much as $10,000 in fines. If the victim is underage or otherwise especially vulnerable, the penalties can be more severe.
Fighting these allegations
False accusations of revenge porn do occur sometimes. If the defendant can prove the victim consented to the creation and distribution of the images, they may not be liable. If they believed they had a permission or did not know the images were intimate, they may have a defense. This can be difficult to establish, so gathering evidence like screenshots and records of conversations and seeking legal expertise are crucial.
The damage does not stop at the courthouse
Beyond the attached legal repercussions, the damage inflicted goes far deeper, such as:
- Legal costs: Mounting a strong defense against revenge porn charges can require legal representation and potential expert witnesses.
- Reputational damage: The mere claim, especially in today’s social media-driven world, can damage the accused’s reputation in personal and professional circles.
- Employment issues: Job loss or suspension is a real possibility, especially in professions with strict ethical codes.
- Emotional distress: The stress and anxiety of facing criminal charges can be overwhelming.
Even if proven false, the accusations alone can make it difficult to move forward with life.
An accusation is not a conviction
There is no foolproof way to prevent allegations. Still, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. For one, make sure to obtain clear consent before sharing any intimate images. This can be the best way to prevent revenge porn, both real and fabricated. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Colorado can help beat these sex crime charges and protect your future.