Texas Internet Sex Trafficking Attorney
Most people are of the opinion that slavery is a thing of the past in our country. Unfortunately, this is far from the truth. Slavery is alive and well in the form of sex trafficking, and it is thriving throughout the state of Texas. The internet is a tool that many responsible for sex trafficking use to find their victims, and at Annie McAdams, PC, we seek justice for those that have been trafficked for sex through the use of the internet.
Internet Sex Trafficking Explained
While the internet can an extremely useful way to connect with others, Internet sex traffickers view it as a place where they can find their next victim. By using their mobile phone or a computer, the trafficker usually uses lies and deceit to get the victim to agree to meet them. Once they do, the trafficker takes the victim, transports them, and makes the victim perform sexual acts against their will. The trafficker also uses the internet the find other people to sexually abuse the victim and to share images of the abuse. Forced prostitution is often the result of internet sex trafficking. Too often, the victims are under the age of 18.
Texas State Laws for Internet Sex Trafficking
Texas has an abundance of laws in place to protect the innocent from sex traffickers in Texas. Some of them address the following:
- Child Internet Sex Trafficking: Title 7 Chapter 33 of the Texas Penal Code addresses Computer Crimes. Specifically, Section 33.021 holds that it is illegal for a person to use the internet or an online service to solicit a minor for sexual purposes. It is also illegal to knowingly possess or access any type of pornography involving a child. Possession of child pornography, or accessing it, with an intent to view it carries a possible 2-20 years in state prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and/or lifetime registration as a sex offender.
- Online Promotion of Prostitution: Texas Statute 43.031 addresses Online Promotion of Prostitution. It holds, in part, that a person commits an offense if they own, manage or operate a computer service with the intent to promote the prostitution of another person. Penalties depend on whether or not the circumstances of the case render the crime a second-degree felony or a third-degree felony. There is also an additional law, Texas Statute 43.04, that addresses Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution.
Speak With A Powerful Texas Internet Sex Trafficking Attorney
When you have been a victim of internet sex trafficking, you will likely have feelings of shame and a lack of self-worth. However, the truth is that you were a victim and you deserve to have powerful counsel that will stand up to those responsible for your abuse. At Annie McAdams, our attorneys are fierce advocates for internet sex trafficking victims, and you can reach us by calling 713-785-6262 or via our contact page.