Tampa Lawyer for Possession of Child Pornography Charges

Being charged with possession of child pornography in Tampa, Florida, is an extremely serious legal matter with life-altering consequences. Under both Florida law and federal statutes, anyone convicted of these charges faces serious penalties such as prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration.

If you are facing charges, it is crucial to seek immediate legal representation from an experienced Tampa lawyer for possession of child pornography charges. Hanlon Law understands the gravity of these allegations and provides an aggressive, strategic defense to protect your rights, reputation, and future. 

Under Florida Statute 827.071, possession of child pornography is classified as a felony offense. The law prohibits knowingly possessing, viewing, or distributing any image, video, or other material that depicts a minor (anyone under 18) engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

A conviction for possessing child pornography in Florida can result in:

• Up to 15 years in prison (for each count)
• Fines up to $10,000
• Mandatory sex offender registration
• Probation with strict restrictions

Additionally, each image or video can be charged as a separate offense, meaning defendants may face multiple felony counts and potentially decades in prison.

If the case involves distribution or production of child pornography, the penalties increase significantly. Federal charges may also apply, resulting in even harsher sentencing guidelines.

If a case involves interstate or online activity, the federal government may take over prosecution. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2252 and § 2252A) imposes strict penalties for possession, distribution, and production of child pornography.

Convictions can lead to:

• Mandatory minimum 5-year prison sentence (up to 20 years)
• Large fines and asset forfeiture
• Supervised release for life

For those with prior convictions or cases involving large amounts of illegal material, penalties can escalate to life in prison.

A possession of child pornography charge does not guarantee a conviction. Several potential defense strategies may be available, depending on the circumstances of your case:

1. Lack of Knowledge or Intent: The prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly possessed illegal material. If the files were downloaded unknowingly, sent without consent, or stored automatically without knowledge, this may serve as a defense.
2. Illegal Search and Seizure: Law enforcement must follow strict protocols when obtaining digital evidence. If authorities conducted an unlawful search, violated your Fourth Amendment rights, or lacked probable cause, evidence could be suppressed in court.
3. False Allegations: False accusations may arise from personal disputes, mistaken identity, or coercion. A skilled defense attorney can investigate the credibility of allegations and uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
4. Third-Party Access or Hacking: If unauthorized individuals accessed a defendant’s computer, phone, or network, it may be possible to prove that the illegal material was not in their control or possession.
5. Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must present clear and convincing evidence that the accused knowingly downloaded, stored, or viewed illegal content. Weak or circumstantial evidence may not meet the burden of proof required for a conviction.

A child pornography conviction of any kind has devastating long-term consequences. In addition to criminal penalties, individuals convicted of these offenses must register as sex offenders, which imposes strict restrictions on:

• Where they can live and work
• Internet and technology usage
• Personal and professional relationships
• Travel and residency options

Being labeled as a sex offender can permanently damage your reputation, career, and personal life. That is why immediate legal representation is critical.

If you or a loved one is facing possession of child pornography charges in Tampa, Florida, you need an experienced and aggressive defense attorney on your side. 

Hanlon Law provides:

• Comprehensive case analysis: We examine every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Aggressive defense strategies: We challenge illegal searches, false allegations, and lack of intent to get charges reduced or dismissed.
• Experienced trial representation: We fight relentlessly to protect your rights in court.

With years of experience handling complex criminal cases, Hanlon Law is prepared to defend your freedom and future.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with possession of child pornography in Tampa, do not wait to seek legal counsel. The prosecution will aggressively pursue your case, and your defense must be just as strong. Call Hanlon Law today at (813) 228-7095, or schedule a confidential consultation today.