Responding To A Charge Of Indecent Exposure

A man was recently arrested after he exposed his genitals at the Golden Triangle Mall. It is uncertain if the event took place inside or outside of the mall. As a result, a report for disorderly conduct was filed.

If you have been arrested for indecent exposure in Denton, you should not hesitate to immediately obtain the assistance of a skilled criminal defense lawyer because conviction of indecent exposure can result in very serious consequences including jail time and significant fines. Many people who are charged with indecent exposure, however, feel uncomfortable obtaining the assistance of an attorney to discuss the details of their case. This article reviews some of the risks associated with indecent exposure to emphasize why people who are charged with this offense should speak with a seasoned criminal defense attorney.

Important Laws Regarding Indecent Exposure

Texas Penal Code Section 21.08 addresses indecent exposure. In accordance with this law, people commit the offense of indecent exposure if they expose their anus or any part of their genitals with the purpose to arouse or gratify their sexual desire and in the process of doing so, they are reckless about whether another person will be alarmed or offended by the act.

As a result, people in the state of Texas can be charged with indecent exposure if they expose their anus or buttocks or any part of their genitals to others in a public space. In the state of Texas, a person is considered to act recklessly if he or she commits an act but consciously disregards the likelihood that the act will result in harm to others.

The penalties for indecent exposure change based on a variety of facts of a person’s case. A person who is charged with indecent exposure most often faces a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Being charged with a second or subsequent indecent exposure offense can result in a person facing a Class A misdemeanor, up to one year in jail, and up to a $4,000 fine. A person who is charged with indecent exposure can also end up facing required registration as a sex offender, educational obstacles, career obstacles, and a permanent criminal record.

Discover How Our Law Firm can Help

Indecent exposure is classified as a sex crime, which means that a person convicted of the offense can end with a stigma that lasts the rest of this or her life. If you are convicted of indecent exposure, the results can be particularly serious. This is why it is a wise idea to obtain the assistance of a seasoned attorney who can make sure that your case resolves in the best possible manner. Contact Wheeler Law Office today to schedule an initial free consultation.

(image courtesy of Hajran Pambudi)