The distribution of intimate images without consent in Texas is a serious offense that can result in legal consequences. With the rise of digital technology and the prevalence of social media, the distribution of intimate images has become an increasingly prevalent problem in society. This blog post will investigate the legal consequences of distributing intimate images without consent in Texas.
Civil Remedies for Victims
In Texas, it is illegal to distribute intimate images without explicit consent from the person in the image. Texas Penal Code section 21.16(c) prohibits the sharing of intimate images without the subject’s consent, and an offense under this law can result in a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Victims of revenge porn can seek civil remedies in Texas courts. Civil remedies include damages for mental anguish, loss of reputation, humiliation, and costs associated with removing images, videos from the internet, and court costs plus attorney fees. Victims can also obtain restraining orders to stop their abusers from harassing or distributing their pictures.
Real-life cases related to non-consensual image distribution
The distribution and posting of explicit material have happened since the internet’s introduction. From sex tapes to nude photos, anything can be blasted on the web for thousands to see. Here are some examples of actual cases of the non-consensual distribution of images.
Damon Bernard McKie, a resident of Doylestown, PA, has been sentenced to four to nine years in state prison for relentlessly stalking his ex-girlfriend and uploading her intimate pictures on the internet, exposing them to her family and friends.
McKie faced serious charges, including two felony counts of stalking and various misdemeanor charges, such as threats, distribution of intimate images, and tampering with evidence. The court also ordered seven years of probation, strict no-contact orders with the victim and her family, and barred McKie from using social media.
A San Diego resident, Kevin Bollaert, was given an 18-year sentence and ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution for identity theft and extortion. He did this by creating YouGotPosted.com, a website he designed specifically for men seeking revenge on their former wives and girlfriends.
The website functioned so that users could post explicit images of women, including intimate ones, and link to their social media, allowing others to contact and harass the victims. Bollaert subsequently launched ChangeMyReputation.com, where the victims could pay a fee of around $350 to have their pictures removed.
Protecting Your Privacy
To prevent the distribution of intimate images without your consent, you should avoid sharing your intimate photographs or videos with anyone. Be cautious about sharing sensitive information with online acquaintances, and secure your social media accounts using strong passwords and privacy settings.
Need help with online sextortion? Call our sextortion helpline, which is available 24/7.
Summary
In conclusion, distributing intimate images without consent is a form of sexual exploitation and online harassment that can have lasting consequences for the victim. Under Texas law, it is a serious crime that can lead to significant criminal and civil penalties.
To prevent revenge porn, it is essential to be cautious about sharing intimate images and take steps to secure your personal information online. If you are a victim of revenge porn, you should seek legal help to know your rights and take the necessary actions to protect yourself. Remember, your dignity and privacy matter, and you should take steps to protect them.
Thanks for reading our article “Legal Consequences of Distribution of Intimate Images Without Consent in Texas”.
