Defending Against Charges of Video Voyeurism

If you regularly read the news, you may have heard about somebody finding a video camera in a changing room or being filmed while using the bathroom. These are examples of video voyeurism.

In fact, you may even find yourself facing charges of video voyeurism yourself. Even if you are innocent, you need a strong defense against these claims because they are very serious. This is what you need to know about these charges and how to defend against them.

1. Basic Video Voyeurism

The basic charge associated with this crime is called video voyeurism. This occurs when the following has occurred:

• Somebody films another person for amusement, entertainment, sexual arousal, or profit. 
• They filmed someone without their consent. 
• The video privately exposes someone else's private body areas. 
• The video camera was in a location where the victim has a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Note that this charge can be used whether you are holding a camera or place one to view later. Video voyeurism can occur in a few different ways. It's unfortunately common that video voyeurism occurs in bathrooms, dressing rooms, locker rooms, and personal bedrooms. 

2. Disseminating Video Voyeurism

You could also be charged with disseminating voyeuristic material, perhaps for profit, arousal, or to degrade and humiliate another party. In some cases, people are charged with commercial video voyeurism if they create these voyeuristic videos to sell to other people.

If the individual in the video is under the age of 18, you may also face additional charges associated with capturing sexual or nude images of a child. This can lead to very harsh charges, including registration as a sex offender.

3. These Are Serious Charges

Video voyeurism may be a misdemeanor for a minor and a felony for adults, depending on the state in which you live. You could be facing hefty fines and serious time in prison. Even if you are innocent, you must pay close attention to these charges. Do not dismiss them even though you are innocent and think that nothing will come of the charges.

4. You Can Defend Yourself With a Criminal Law Attorney

Many people think that because they are innocent, they do not need to hire an attorney. Criminal defense attorneys defend clients all the time, so you should speak with an attorney before you make any major decisions. Set up a consultation with an attorney today to learn more.