Maryland State Police Arrest Two Men On Child Pornography Charges

Maryland troopers have arrested two Baltimore City men for possession of child pornography. The Maryland State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigation found evidence that the two men were downloading illegal images and videos onto their computers. The first suspect, a 41-year-old male, is charged with five counts of possession of child pornography. The second suspect, a 54-year-old male, was charged with three counts of possession of child pornography. Both were transported to the Baltimore City Detention Center for processing while awaiting an initial appearance with the District Court Commissioner.

The Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit initiated an investigation into the possession of child pornography online in March 2024. Recently, Maryland State Police with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and the Baltimore Police Department, served a search warrant at the residences of the two suspects. The two men were arrested at the scene. A preliminary forensic investigation of the suspects’ electronic devices revealed multiple images of child sex abuse material.

Analyzing the charges 

Under Maryland Criminal Law 11-208, an individual may not knowingly possess and intentionally retain a film, videotape, photograph, or other visual representation showing an actual child or an image indistinguishable from a child under the age of 16 years engaged in sexual conduct. The crime is charged as a misdemeanor for first offenses, but a felony for subsequent offenses. While possession of such images related to minors who are 16 or 17 is not illegal under Maryland law, it is illegal under federal law.

Potential penalties for possession of child pornography will differ depending on what child pornography charges you face. For a first offender who is convicted of production, distribution, or possession of child pornography, you can face a prison sentence of up to 10 years in prison. For second or third offenses, you can face a prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines of up to $50,000.

For simple possession of child pornography, a first-time offender can be charged with a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor under this statute comes with the possibility of up to 5 years of jail time and a fine of up to $2,500. If the individual was previously convicted under this statute, the subsequent charge will be considered a felony under Maryland law with a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years.

What about teen sexting? 

Unfortunately, the same laws that are used to protect children can also be used to charge them. If a teenager sends a sexually explicit photo of themselves to their significant other, they can be charged with the production of child pornography. If your child has been charged under this statute, you will need to find them a good defense attorney.

Talk to a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

Schlaich & Thompson represent the interests of those charged with serious crimes in Maryland. With over 60 years of experience at our disposal, we can help you fight the charges and prepare a vigorous defense. Call our Bel Air family attorneys today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your defense strategy right away.

Source:

news.maryland.gov/msp/2024/04/11/maryland-state-police-arrest-two-men-on-child-pornography-charges-in-baltimore-city/