Defense lawyers specializing in Lisbon’s pandering obscenity of a minor cases

In the state of Ohio, pandering obscenity of a minor is a serious offense. Ohio law defines it as creating, reproducing, buying, selling, advertising for sale, publicly distributing, or displaying any material of a juvenile that is deemed obscene. Obscene material, according to Ohio law, includes sexual deviancy, actions, and simulations.

If you find yourself facing charges related to pandering obscenity of a minor, know that Youngstown Criminal Law Group is here to help you. With over 20 years of experience in handling sex offense cases, we are a well-established firm in the southern Ohio region. Our lead attorney, Sean Logue, was even recognized as a Top Lawyer in Central Ohio in 2015 by Columbus CEO Magazine.

While these charges may seem overwhelming, rest assured that you are in capable hands with Sean Logue and the rest of our dedicated team at Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we understand the gravity of your situation. We are committed to providing you with the best possible defense, tailored to your unique circumstances. Our passion for criminal defense in the Lisbon area drives us to go above and beyond for our clients. We will stand by your side and advocate for your rights throughout the entire legal process.

We proudly serve clients in Columbiana County and neighboring counties, including Georgetown in Brown County, Wilmington in Clinton County, Lisbon in Columbiana County, and Batavia in Clermont County.

Take the first step towards building a strong defense by calling Youngstown Criminal Law Group today at 330-992-3036. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Don’t face these charges alone. Let us guide you through this challenging time and fight for the best possible outcome.

The Charges of Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Lisbon

Pandering obscenity of a minor is a serious offense in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code § 2907.32. To establish guilt, the prosecution must provide evidence beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed any of the following actions:

• Created, published, or reproduced material that depicts a minor engaging in obscene acts.
• Promoted, displayed, or advertised for sale obscene material involving a minor.
• Directed, produced, or participated in an obscene performance featuring a minor.
• Advertised, promoted, or participated in presenting an obscene performance that included a minor.
• Obtained, possessed, or controlled obscene material involving a minor.
• Imported or caused the transportation of obscene material involving a minor into Ohio.

The term “obscene” is defined under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.01(F). It refers to sexually deviant material or performances designed to accomplish any of the following purposes:

• Appeal to a prurient interest in sex.
• Arouse lust by depicting sexual activity, excitement, or nudity.
• Arouse lust through displaying bestiality, extreme violence, cruelty, or brutality.
• Appeal to scatological interests by showing or describing human bodily functions to invoke disgust or revulsion in individuals with normal sensitivities.
• Portray a series of sexual or scatological activities, including masturbation, nudity, bestiality, extreme or bizarre violence, cruelty, brutality, and human bodily functions, for the purpose of sexual or scatological appeal, rather than scientific, educational, sociological, moral, or artistic reasons.

Penalties for Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Ohio

In Ohio, the offense of pandering obscenity involving a minor carries severe penalties, akin to child pornography charges. Understandably, the consequences for individuals convicted of such crimes are quite impactful, including substantial fines and potential prison terms.

If found guilty of buying, procuring, possessing, or controlling any obscene material involving a minor, offenders may face a fourth-degree felony. This degree of felony comes with the following consequences:

• A possible fine of up to $5,000
• A potential prison term of up to 12 months

Repeat offenders who engage in the purchase, possession, or control of inappropriate material involving a minor face enhanced penalties. Specifically, the offense becomes a third-degree felony. The repercussions for this degree of felony include:

• A possible fine of up to $10,000
• A potential prison term of up to 18 months

All other types of pandering obscenity of a minor fall under the classification of a second-degree felony. This degree of felony warrants much more severe consequences:

• A possible fine of up to $15,000
• A maximum prison sentence of up to 8 years

For an offense to be charged as a second-degree felony, it must involve any of the following actions:

• Creation, reproduction, or publication of obscene material involving a minor
• Promotion, advertisement for sale, delivery, sale, display or agreement to do so of obscene material involving a minor
• Creation, direction, or production of an obscene performance involving a minor
• Advertisement, promotion for presentation or participation in presenting an obscene performance involving a minor
• Bringing or causing to be brought into the state any obscene material involving a minor

It is important to highlight that a lack of awareness regarding the age of the alleged victim does not constitute an admissible defense in court. Even if the defendant was deceived about the minor’s age, it does not excuse their actions.

Enhancing Defenses Against Pandering Obscenity of a Minor Charges in Lisbon

Our firm’s Lisbon sex crimes lawyers can employ various defenses against charges of pandering obscenity of a minor:

The Material in Question Is Not Obscene

There exists a distinct disparity between suggestive material and obscenity. To establish a case, the prosecution must demonstrate that the material aligns with the precise terms of obscenity as defined in Ohio Revised Code § 2907.01(F).

The Statute of Limitations Has Passed

Ohio law mandates that charges of pandering obscenity of a minor must be filed within a specified timeframe following the alleged incident. If the prosecution fails to adhere to this window, they cannot file charges, resulting in the dismissal of the case.

The Material Had a Legitimate Use

Ohio’s legislation stipulates that the allegedly obscene material must not have been created with the intention of arousing sexual excitement. Instead, it must serve another lawful purpose, such as scientific study or medical research.

It is worth noting that there may be additional defenses available in your particular case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Columbiana County

Q: Could I Go to Jail for Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Lisbon?

A: Yes, you could face imprisonment if convicted of pandering obscenity involving a minor. The length of your sentence depends on the severity of the charges in your case. For offenses like purchasing, procuring, possessing, or controlling obscene material related to a minor, the potential jail time can be up to 12 months. Repeat offenders may be sentenced to up to 18 months, while those charged with a second-degree felony could face up to 8 years in prison.

Q: Are There Any Fines Associated with Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Columbiana County?

A: Absolutely. Convicted offenders of pandering obscenity involving a minor in Columbiana County may be required to pay fines. The amount of fines varies depending on the degree of the felony charge. For a fourth-degree felony, fines can reach up to $5,000. Meanwhile, third-degree felony fines (for repeat offenders) can go up to $10,000, and for a second-degree felony, fines can amount to $15,000.

Q: What Is Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Ohio?

A: Pandering obscenity of a minor in Ohio is defined in Ohio Revised Code § 2907.32. According to the law, a person commits this offense by engaging in activities such as reproducing, publishing, or creating obscene material involving a minor. It also includes actions like advertising, displaying, or promoting the sale of obscene material containing a minor, as well as producing, directing, or creating an obscene performance featuring a minor. Additionally, possessing, controlling, procuring, or purchasing obscene material involving a minor with the intent to promote or advertise it later constitutes a violation of the law.

Q: In Lisbon, Is Pandering Obscenity of a Minor a Felony?

A: Yes, Lisbon follows Ohio statutes, which specify that pandering obscenity of a minor is charged as a felony offense. The degree of felony charges can vary, ranging from fourth-degree to second-degree, depending on factors such as whether the case involves a repeat offender or other circumstances.

Q: How Can I Beat a Pandering Obscenity of a Minor Charge in Ohio?

A: Successfully facing a pandering obscenity of a minor charge in Ohio requires the expertise of a skilled Lisbon sex crimes lawyer. They can employ a variety of defense strategies tailored to the specific facts of your case.

Possible defenses may involve challenging the obscenity of the material in question and asserting that it served a valid purpose, such as scientific or medical research, or education. Engaging legal representation will help you navigate the complexities of your case and build a strong defense.

Criminal Defense Lawyers for Pandering Obscenity of a Minor in Lisbon

If you or someone you know is facing charges of pandering obscenity of a minor in the greater Lisbon area, it is crucial to seek the help of a highly skilled and experienced Lisbon prostitution attorney. Until you can consult with one of our trusted Lisbon prostitution lawyers, it is advisable to exercise your right to remain silent when dealing with law enforcement.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we pride ourselves on being specialists in criminal defense within southern Ohio. Our approach to every case is marked by unwavering dedication and a strong commitment to protecting the rights of our clients. We understand the complexities of the legal system and are determined to guide you through these challenging waters.

Take the first step in building your defense today. Call us now at 330-992-3036 to arrange a free consultation with our accomplished Lisbon sex crimes attorneys.