Public indecency, often known as indecent exposure, is illegal in all 50 states, including California. Many individuals associate this crime with flashers and might even find it amusing. In actuality, the accusations may be really severe.
A person convicted of this offense faces not only the possibility of spending time in jail and paying penalties, but also the possibility of having to register as a sex offender for the rest of their lives. You should get in touch with Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 straight away if you have been suspected or charged with committing this offense.
What constitutes indecent exposure?
In California, the offense of indecent exposure is classified as a “crime against public decency and good morals” under the criminal code. In brief, it is forbidden to display one’s genitalia, buttocks, or occasionally, breasts.
It is obvious from the statue that it is only significant in specific locations. Both public and any location where a person is likely to be “offended or irritated” by the nudity fall under this definition. As a result, indecent exposure regulations may apply even to some locations that seem private.
Potential punishments for exposure to pornography
Indecent exposure is considered a misdemeanor in the state of California. The maximum punishment is a $1,000 fine and up to six months in prison. But there are a few things that might lead to severe punishments. For instance, if you entered a residence with the intention of committing this offense, you may face a year in prison. If you are detained and found guilty of this act more than once, you risk receiving a felony conviction and a sentence of state jail.
The fact that persons convicted of this crime may have to register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives is frequently the worst aspect of it. Even if you did not contact anyone during the act, this may still be the case. You might only need to register for 10 years in specific circumstances. Due to this, it could be challenging to get employment and housing.
Options for fighting accusations of public indecency
Examining the precise provisions of the legislation and demonstrating that they do not apply is one of the greatest strategies to defend against these accusations. For instance, the statute calls for the exposure of “private parts,” although it is unclear what exactly they mean. The law also stipulates that you have to be in public or be around persons who may have been irritated or offended. We can try to demonstrate that you were only changing clothes and were unaware that anyone else was around.
You should get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you have even the slightest fear about being required to register as a sex offender. For a free legal consultation, call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 right away.
