Manassas Federal Child Pornography Lawyer

The definition of child pornography under federal law involves images of anyone below 18 years old engaging in sexual behavior. The category of sexually explicit conduct features nudity that shows genitals or pubic regions along with lascivious poses or simulated intercourse acts. The law does not require the person to be fully undressed or to touch anyone to be considered child pornography.

Also, real images, computer-generated pictures, and even cartoons can be considered child pornography if they contain sexually explicit conduct involving a minor or are meant to be believed to be a minor.

In many cases, prosecutors don’t need to show that someone created the content themselves or had direct physical contact; even deleted or temporary internet files can become the focus of an investigation. Federal law criminalizes the possession and distribution of child pornography, including passive sharing and automatic syncing of files.

Child pornography laws in Manassas are largely governed by federal laws, mainly outlined in Title 18 of the United States Code. There are many subsections that handle the specifics regarding the illegality of child pornography. In fiscal year 2024, there were 1,375 federal child pornography cases that were prosecuted. This represents a 34.4% increase since 2020.

18 U.S.C. § 2251 makes it illegal to coerce minors to engage in sexual activity with the purpose of creating visual materials, such as photographs or videos. Conviction of this section of this title mandates at least 15 years, and no more than 30 years, in a federal prison. For those who did not physically produce the pornography, but may have facilitated, arranged, or produced content, this statute can still be used to charge.

Material that is virtual, or computer-generated, is addressed in 18 U.S.C. § 1466A, which prohibits the knowing creation and distribution of obscene visual depictions of the sexual abuse of children, including animated or cartoon images that depict minors engaged in sexual activities. Possession of virtual child pornography is also illegal under this statute, even if no children were actually harmed in the production of the material. It’s also important to note that accusations sometimes stem from misunderstandings, technical errors, or even false allegations—situations where a strong legal defense can make all the difference.

Enhancements also exist, which can increase a defendant’s penalties, such as extended jail time. Enhancements are added for particular circumstances, including a high number of images in possession, significantly young victims, or the portrayal of intensely sadistic behavior.

Federal child pornography charges come with a significant amount of penalties if convicted. These penalties can affect you for the rest of your life. Some of the most common penalties include:

• Prison time, depending on the offense, can be up to 30 years or more if there are enhancements involved.
• Fines, sometimes up to six figures
• Mandatory registration on the sex offender registry
• Supervised release

Those facing federal charges in Manassas should understand that every step of the process—from the initial investigation through pretrial hearings—requires careful attention and skilled legal counsel. In addition to criminal penalties, offenders may also face personal and professional consequences. Your reputation could be permanently damaged, causing strain on current and future relationships. Additionally, a convicted person may face restrictions on housing, especially if they live within a certain distance of places where children are present, such as schools, day cares, and playgrounds.

Professional licenses may also be revoked, and certain career fields may no longer be viable options, such as teaching or being a pediatrician. Due to the severity of the outcome for your future, it is essential to hire a federal child pornography lawyer right away.

We have defended clients in complex federal child pornography cases for more than three decades at Johnson/Citronberg. We understand the seriousness of these charges and the high stakes involved in federal court.

We are familiar with the procedures and the people at the U.S. District Court serving the Manassas area, including the Alexandria Division of the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are looking for an experienced federal child pornography attorney, we are here and we are prepared to fight for you.

Is Pornography Legal in the U.S.?

Yes, pornography is legal in the U.S. among consenting adults with certain restrictions in place. However, child pornography is not legal in the U.S. under any circumstances, and it offers no protection under the law. Between adults, it is generally illegal to post pornography without the other participating adult(s) consent, or in retaliation or revenge for something else.

What Specifically Did the Child Pornography Prevention Act of 1996 Criminalize?

The Child Pornography Prevention Act of 1996 was a United States federal law that made it illegal not just to those who depicted the traditional definition of child pornography, but also to virtual or computer-generated images, if they appear to be of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

When Were Internet Crimes Against Children Created?

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program is a cooperative endeavor among federal, state, and local law enforcement. Established in 1998 by the United States Department of Justice, the purpose of ICAC Task Forces is to equip state and local law enforcement with the resources they need to effectively combat the growing use of the internet to facilitate child pornography.

What Is Known as the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009?

The Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (ACPA) updated and expanded federal child pornography laws. The Act expanded penalties for particular child pornography offenses while concurrently enhancing law enforcement capabilities to investigate internet-based child exploitation. The ACPA established new standards for what constitutes lascivious exhibition while making possession of digital images resembling minors a criminal offense.

Being charged with a federal child pornography charge is a serious matter that can greatly affect your future if convicted. Johnson/Citronberg can help fight for your rights and your future, giving you greater peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more.

• Frequently asked questions about child pornography charges

• Defenses to child pornography charges

• Federal child pornography sentencing guidelines