Child pornography is, by nature, a very sensitive, taboo topic. This is probably quite clear to a Waukesha man who recently made his first court appearance for possessing child pornography. His bond was set at $10,000.
The 52-year-old financial advisor has been charged with three felony counts for possession of child pornography and one count of sexual exploitation of a child. In June, Waukesha police allegedly conducted an Internet search and, eventually, traced the origin of four images to the accused man’s residence. The man, who works at a financial advisory firm, reportedly admitted that he was addicted to downloading and viewing child pornography, which he would then delete using file-wiping software.
There are legal consequences after a person is proven guilty of unlawful use of a computer to facilitate a sex crime. Like other states in the United States, Wisconsin bans the possession and distribution of child pornography to protect minors against sexual offenders.
One tactic in police operations is searching the Internet to ensnare unsuspecting persons who may be innocent or guilty, but to a lesser degree than the charges they are facing. Although Internet sex crimes are different from physical sexual abuse, both charges carry similar potential penalties, including being labeled a sex offender. This can affect one’s reputation, with long-term implications for a person’s social esteem, relationships and future employment.
Establishing the innocence of a person charged with an Internet crime can be difficult without the help of knowledgeable Wisconsin legal professionals. Felonies carry significant penalties, which may lead to imprisonment. To avoid being sentenced harshly and uphold the dignity of a person accused, immediate legal help may be sought.
Source: Journal Sentinel, “Financial adviser charged with possessing child porn,” Bruce Vielmetti, July 30, 2013.