Despite the positive use and influence of the media we consume daily, there is also a harmful side brought by non-consensual explicit content. An example of this is sexual cyberharassment or partaking in revenge porn. What is posted online for the world to see is taken very seriously, as well as any threats that are made to expose such content. There are legal repercussions for the parties involved in releasing explicit images and videos. At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, our lawyers can help you understand the law and plead your case in a sexual cyberharassment situation where you were accused or directly affected by the release of private information.
Why Revenge Porn Is Considered a Crime
Revenge porn is primarily defined as non-consensual pornography, and it combines cyberharassment with sexual abuse. It’s considered “revenge” porn because it has gained popularity as a form of blackmail or retaliation. The perpetrator, who initially releases the pornography without the other person’s awareness, intends to harm or seek revenge against their victim. Some of the most common scenarios in which a person would be a victim of revenge porn includes when a previous partner posts sexual videos or photos in an attempt to humiliate them after a breakup. Even if the victim initially recorded or took the image of themselves, the individual releasing the material without the person’s consent is wrong.
Often posted on social media or websites in images and videos of sexually explicit content, the victims of revenge porn suffer from the traumatizing effects of this crime. Those involved in blackmailing or sharing the photos and videos can be charged with severe penalties for partaking in this crime. In a moment of rage or anger, some have found themselves deciding to expose their previous partner and share their intimate images or recordings. Our lawyers can help you fight your case and learn the facts about the law against these crimes.
What Is Louisiana’s Law against Revenge Porn?
The law against revenge porn in Louisiana is found in Louisiana Statute R.S. 14:283.2, which introduces the nonconsensual disclosure of a private image. Specifically, Louisiana has made it illegal for anyone to knowingly, intentionally, and willfully share sexually explicit images of a person over the internet without their consent and with the intent of causing harm or humiliation.
According to Louisiana statute 14:283.2, “image” is defined as “…any photograph, film, videotape, digital recording, or other depiction or portrayal of an object, including a human body.”
This clarifies that any explicit images shared without permission are against the law. This law also makes it illegal to threaten or coerce someone into taking explicit photos. If an individual was coerced into taking nude images and then threatened with the release of those images, they would be considered a victim of this crime.
Penalties for Sharing Explicit Non-consensual Images
The intentional and illegal distribution or sharing of sexual content is a third-degree felony, and the potential penalties are:
- Up to 2 years in jail
- Ten thousand dollar fine
- Both jail time and a ten thousand dollar fine
The severity of the crime depends on whether you were accused of posting revenge porn, distributing revenge porn, or making threats to distribute revenge porn. No matter the case, our legal team can assist you in fighting a case against the serious charges you are facing.
Experienced Legal Defense for Sexual Cyber Harassment in Louisiana
If you were accused of revenge porn in Louisiana, speak with our sex offense lawyers immediately regarding your situation. You could face severe penalties if found guilty of this crime. At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, our experienced legal team can help you understand how Louisiana’s laws apply to your situation. We will also review the best chance at minimizing penalties or clearing your name entirely. Our team is dedicated to helping you fight the case and learn your rights. To learn more about revenge porn and the law, call our team at (318) 377-1555 or contact us here for a consultation.
