Utah Teens Who “Sext”

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Texting is a common, usually daily, occurrence for many Utah teen. Texting too much may get a teen into trouble with their parents over the cell phone bill, but excessive texting isn’t against the law. The last few years has seen the advent of a new type of communication called “sexting.” Sexting is sending sexually explicit photos or messages electronically, usually from one cell phone to another.

Photo: Jeramey Jannene

Sexting in Utah is a misdemeanor. The penalties for misdemeanors range from up to 90 days in jail for a class C misdemeanor; up to 6 months in jail for a class B misdemeanor and up to 1 year in jail for a class A misdemeanor. Before you sext anyone, you may want to ask yourself if sexting is worth any amount of time spent in jail or detention. Not only can sexting give you a criminal record, it can also damage your personal pride.

If you are tempted to sext, avoid it at all costs. If someone wants to see you naked, don’t comply. You never know where pictures sent through cell phones or over the internet will end up. You may think you’re in a loving, lifelong relationship with a person, only to find that relationship over next week and any pictures you’ve sent them spread abroad for all to behold. Don’t get charged with a crime because you’re trying to impress or attract someone. The consequences aren’t worth it. Protect yourself and keep your clothes on. If you’re already in trouble with the law for sexting or any other crime, hire a Utah juvenile defense attorney without delay. Don’t get in any deeper than you already are.