New Jersey Legislation Aims to Curtail Sexting
New Jersey Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt has introduced legislation aimed at curtailing "sexting" that involves young girls and boys sending racy and often, nude pictures of themselves online including sending explicit photos over their phone. According to this Associated Press report, the actions of these teens technically amount to distribution of child pornography, a New Jersey sex crime charge that could carry severe, lifelong penalties for these young people.
Under Lampitt's proposal, juveniles caught sending sexually explicit photographs via their cell phones will not face criminal prosecution. Instead, it would create an educational program in which participants would learn about the potential state and federal legal consequences and penalties for sexting. The program will also teach teens about the personal consequences including the effects of sexting on relationships, school-life and ruined future career and educational opportunities. Under the proposed legislation, it would be up to prosecutors to determine who can or cannot be admitted into this educational program. Juveniles who successfully complete this program will avoid trial or criminal record.
This legislation not only makes sense, but it also has heart. Young people don't need to be thrown in jail or treated like criminals for what may have well been a moment of poor judgment. They need to be given a second chance and they deserve that opportunity to learn their lesson. The experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein welcome this new legislation. We hope it becomes law soon and sends out a strong message to New Jersey youth.
