Transmission of Child Pornography in Tampa, FL

Being charged with the transmission of child pornography in Tampa, Florida, can be a serious and life-altering event. When prosecuted, these charges carry severe penalties at both the state and federal level, including long prison sentences, substantial fines, and mandatory sex offender registration. If you or someone you know is facing allegations related to the transmission of child pornography, you need an experienced and aggressive Tampa lawyer for transmission of child pornography charges on your side.

At Hanlon Law, we understand how devastating these accusations can be personally, professionally, and legally. Our firm provides strategic, confidential, and results-driven defense for individuals charged with internet sex crimes in Tampa and throughout Florida.

What Is Transmission of Child Pornography?

Transmission of child pornography involves sending, sharing, distributing, or making available any material that depicts a minor (anyone under the age of 18) engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This includes images, videos, and other digital content shared via:

• Email or text message
• Social media platforms
• Cloud storage services
• Peer-to-peer file-sharing networks
• Encrypted messaging apps
• Any online or digital communication platform

In many cases, individuals charged with this offense are accused of either knowingly sending such material or knowingly making it available for others to download or access.

Florida Law on Child Pornography Transmission

Under Florida Statute 847.0137, the transmission of child pornography is a second-degree felony. A conviction can result in:

• Up to 15 years in prison per count
• Up to 15 years of sex offender probation
• Fines up to $10,000
• Mandatory sex offender registration
• Permanent criminal record

Each individual transmission — even if it involves the same image or video — can be charged as a separate offense, which may lead to multiple counts and a significantly higher total sentence.

Federal Charges for Transmission of Child Pornography

In cases where the transmission involves the internet, email, or interstate communications, the federal government may prosecute under 18 U.S.C. § 2252 or § 2252A. Federal charges carry even harsher penalties, including:

• Mandatory minimum sentences of 5 years, up to 20 years for first-time offenders
• Enhanced penalties for repeat offenders or if the material involves very young children
• Lifetime supervised release
• Asset forfeiture and large fines

Federal prosecutors and agents often use sophisticated digital forensics to trace transmissions, even if the content was deleted or shared anonymously.

Common Defenses Against Transmission Charges

At Hanlon Law, we believe that every defendant has the right to a strong and fair defense, no matter the nature of the charges. Potential legal defenses to transmission of child pornography charges may include:

1. Lack of Knowledge or Intent

The prosecution must prove that you knowingly transmitted illegal material. In some cases, individuals may unknowingly download or share content without realizing its nature or illegality.

2. Unlawful Search or Seizure

If law enforcement obtained evidence through a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights, your attorney can seek to have that evidence suppressed in court.

3. Computer Hacking or Unauthorized Use

Your devices may have been accessed or controlled remotely without your knowledge, leading to illegal activity being traced back to you unjustly.

4. Mistaken Identity

In cases involving IP addresses or online activity, it's possible that someone else used your network or device, especially in shared living situations or unsecured internet connections.

Why Choose Hanlon Law Today

When facing federal or state charges for the transmission of child pornography in Tampa, your choice of legal representation matters. At Hanlon Law, we offer:

• Decades of experience handling complex sex crime cases
• Aggressive and strategic defense tailored to your specific situation
• Discreet and confidential legal guidance
• A commitment to protecting your rights, reputation, and future

We know that the prosecution will come prepared, and so will we. Give us a call today at (813) 228-7095, or schedule a confidential consultation online.

---