Maryland law prohibits a number of actions and behaviors as criminal and punishes violators with serious sanctions like jail time and fines. Indecent exposure, a type of sex crime in the state, is one such action that can change the course of a person’s life if they are convicted of such a charge. This post will explore what constitutes indecent exposure and how individuals can be punished if they are convicted of their alleged crimes. This post does not offer any specific legal advice.
What is indecent exposure?
The charge of indecent exposure is made up of 3 elements. First, the accused individual must have revealed a private part of their body, such as their buttocks or genitals. Second, the alleged exposure must have occurred in a public place and not at a private property. Finally, there must have been at least one other person present when the alleged exposure happened. When prosecutors can prove these elements in court, they may be able to secure convictions against indecent exposure defendants.
What are the punishments for indecent exposure?
Sanctions for indecent exposure charges are significant. A person can be sentenced to up to 3 years in prison for an indecent exposure charge, as well as subject to paying a $1,000 fine. These punishments can cause serious hardships for individuals as well as their families and loved ones.
Under Maryland law, though, not all individuals convicted of indecent exposure have to register as sex offenders. When children under the age of 18 are involved in alleged indecent exposure crimes, alleged perpetrators may have to register as sex offenders in the state. It is important that indecent exposure defendants talk to their criminal defense attorneys about their options and possible sanctions.
Criminal charges of all forms are serious. Indecent exposure is not exception. Help from supportive and knowledgeable Annapolis-based criminal defense attorneys can help individuals work their way through the criminal justice system.