Technology has changed our lives and how we interact with each other.  Unfortunately, the increasing and disturbing trend of revenge porn has surfaced along with advanced technology; couples film each other and themselves in consensual sexual ways and share these private images or videos. Sometimes when relationships end, these private videos and images are shared on public forums and through text messages.

Definition of Revenge Porn

When revealing texts, social media posts, or emails are later used in a purposeful, humiliating way, it is defined as revenge porn. The first state to outlaw the distribution of nonconsensual pornography is New Jersey, where a criminal conviction of revenge porn can lead to time in prison or even a restraining order.

Revenge Porn is a Criminal Act

Due to advanced camera phones and social media outlets, a person’s most intimate moments can be caught in an instant. In most situations, these are consensual actions between two adults. When these images and videos are used without the other’s consent in the forms of harassment, humiliation, or blackmail, it is considered revenge porn under criminal law and is a form of nonconsensual pornography.

Criminal Distribution

The New Jersey revenge porn law criminalizes the act of distributing these videos or images without consent. New Jersey was the first state to criminalize revenge porn. Soon after, 16 other states outlawed nonconsensual pornography. 

It is also considered a nonconsensual disclosure of the image, recording, or internet post. It is a criminal act regardless of when the video or image was made, even if it was consensual; motive is also not necessary as the act alone is enough for criminal charges.

Punishment for Revenge Porn

Revenge porn is also considered an invasion of privacy. Sometimes, it will be presented in domestic violence cases, which could lead to restraining orders as well. The state of New Jersey has very strict revenge porn laws that are meant to stop this heinous act. Revenge porn is considered a third-degree crime, a conviction can lead to three to five years in prison and a fine up to $15,000.

Like restraining orders, a person does not have to be in a friendly or romantic relationship with you in order to seek charges against you. Regardless if you were married, boyfriend and girlfriend, work acquaintances, or strangers down the street, distributing intimate photos or videos without consent is considered revenge porn.

Cherry Hill Criminal Defense Lawyers at Aita Law, LLC Defend Those Accused of Distributing Revenge Porn

If you have been accused of harassing a former lover or have been accused of distributing nonconsensual pornography, then contact one of our skilled Cherry Hill criminal defense lawyers at Aita Law, LLC today. Our experienced lawyers will confidently defend your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Contact us online or call us at 856-287-7800 to schedule a free consultation about your case. Located in Haddonfield and Marlton, New Jersey, we serve clients in South Jersey, including Cherry Hill and Camden County.