In the state of Florida, the Computer Pornography and Child Exploitation Prevention Act makes it a crime to make or transmit pornography that exploits minors. Sexual exploitation is addressed not only in this statute but also in many of Florida’s laws including Chapter 39, proceedings related to children.
Within Chapter 39, sexual exploitation is defined to include offering up a child to engage in prostitution; allowing or encouraging a child to engage in prostitution; or soliciting a child to engage in prostitution. Participating in human trafficking is also classified as exploitation.
Sexual exploitation is not only illegal under Florida law, but is also a crime under federal law. 18 U.S. Code section 2251 defines sexual exploitation to include persuading, inducing, enticing or coercing a child to produce any type of child pornography or to make any visual depictions of the child engaging in sex acts.
Exploited children may experience long-term and serious consequences resulting from the unlawful behavior perpetrated against them. Many exploited children become substance abusers or suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Conviction for a criminal offense of sexual exploitation of a child can result in a lengthy prison sentence for the perpetrator. A Florida child sexual abuse attorney can also provide assistance to children and their families in pursuing damages through the civil justice system, which is separate from the criminal justice system.
When a child exploitation victim or the child’s family pursues a civil case, the purpose is to recover compensation for losses the exploiter has caused the child to endure. A child may be able to obtain monetary damages to cover the costs of therapy and to provide compensation for other losses endured.