Serious charges involving the internet require an experienced defense team to navigate the complexities and nuances of these types of crimes. Internet sex crimes have become increasingly prevalent and complex in today’s digital age. Michigan law enforcement agencies and prosecutors are aggressively pursuing cases involving online illegal activities. Suppose you are facing, or could be facing, potential internet sex crime charges in Michigan; hiring a skilled defense attorney who understands and has experience in these cases’ technical aspects and legal nuances is crucial. Internet sex crimes can be complex and often paralyzing to understand.
Contact us for a free, consultation now. We can help.
At Blank Law, PC, we deeply understand the latest relevant laws and regulations regarding Computer and Internet Crimes. As former prosecutors and Chiefs of Sexual Assault Units, we have a unique perspective on how to handle these types of crimes. Our experience with digital forensics, online platforms, online dating sites, and evidence handling puts us ten steps ahead of our competition. We are familiar with the prosecutor’s tactics in these cases, which we incorporate into our case-building and negotiating strategies (if necessary).
“MINOR” – for purposes of Internet crimes:
When it comes to computer Internet sex crimes in Michigan, it’s crucial to understand the distinction in how “minor” is defined compared to criminal sexual conduct cases. For Internet-related offenses, a “minor” is defined as anyone under 18.
In contrast, for most criminal sexual conduct charges, a “minor” is considered to be under the age of 16. In Michigan, even if someone is legally old enough to consent to sexual activities at 16, they are not legally allowed to send or receive sexually explicit photos or videos if they are under 18.
This holds true even if the material was sent accidentally or without solicitation. Possession of such material can lead to charges of Possession of Child Pornography. If the material is then further distributed, it escalates to the Dissemination of Child Pornography, which carries significantly harsher penalties.
Each case is unique when charged with a Computer Internet Crime, and various factors like prior convictions, the severity of the crime, and involvement level can influence the penalties. It’s essential for anyone charged with an Internet crime to contact Blank Law, PC, the moment they anticipate they may be being investigated.
Each case presents unique circumstances that require careful consideration of many different factors. Factors such as prior convictions, the severity of the alleged offense, and the individual’s level of involvement can all significantly influence the penalties imposed. Therefore, anyone charged or even suspects they may be under investigation for an Internet crime must seek immediate legal counsel. Contacting Blank Law, PC, at the earliest stage possible ensures that you have experienced legal representation to guide you through the complexities of the legal system regarding computer crimes. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing a robust defense tailored to the nuances of your specific case.
In many Internet crime cases, the technical complexity and nature of the charges may necessitate the involvement of hiring a forensic expert. These professionals specialize in digital forensics and can play a pivotal role in the defense strategy. Blank Law, PC believes in hiring a forensic expert who can meticulously analyze digital devices, such as computers or smartphones, to uncover crucial evidence that may support your case. They can verify whether illegal material was purposefully downloaded or inadvertently received, assess the presence of viruses or malware that may have led to unauthorized access or downloads, and establish timelines to determine the exact chain of digital events. Furthermore, forensic experts can help authenticate digital communications and challenge the prosecution’s evidence, potentially demonstrating that data has been tampered with or misinterpreted. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating the technical details and providing a comprehensive defense in complex Internet crime cases. Blank Law, PC, will be able to tell if an expert is necessary for your case after their first analysis of your case.
The penalties for Internet crimes in Michigan can vary widely depending on the specific Internet crime and circumstances surrounding your case. They carry hefty penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, probation, and registering as a sex offender.
Internet charges often carry a social stigma that can damage one’s reputation and lead to social isolation and embarrassment for the rest of one’s life. Other collateral damage includes the real possibility of preventing future admission into school, renting a home or apartment, or being unable to be hired for a job. Additionally, relationships with family and friends may be strained. Understanding these potential repercussions highlights the importance of taking such charges seriously and seeking expert legal guidance to navigate the legal process effectively.
1. Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Purposes:
2. Possession, Distribution and Production of Child Pornography:
The most common charges related to the internet in Michigan are Possession of Child Pornography, Distribution of Child Pornography, and Production of Child Pornography.
Possession: This is a 4-year felony.
Distribution: This is a 7-year felony.
Production: This is a 20-year felony
3. Entrapment and Sting Operations:
4. Use of the Internet or Computer to Commit a Crime:
There are varying penalties for this crime depending on the underlying felony.
Q: If a person is charged with Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, along with another felony, does the penalty for this crime run concurrent (at the same time) or consecutive (complete one sentence before you can begin the following sentence)?
The court may order that a term of imprisonment imposed for “Using a Computer to Commit a Crime” be served consecutively to any term of imprisonment for the conviction of the other offense.
Q: Who determines whether the State or the Federal Government will charge a Computer Internet Crime?
It is important to note that internet crimes can be charged locally, through the State of Michigan, or Federally, through the United States Government. They can be charged Federally because of the interstate nature of internet communications. The penalties for the same crime are much steeper and harsher if the Federal Government charges you. Whether or not the State or the Federal Government will charge you is typically a decision between the two departments.
Q: Does being charged with an internet crime mean the loss of my ability to use the internet altogether?
As a result of either pleading to or being found guilty of an internet crime, there are inevitable losses of Privacy and Restrictions that come along with it. You may face restrictions on Internet usage, limiting personal and professional capabilities, monitoring your Internet usage, or limitations on Internet use.