What is Video Voyeurism? Understanding the Crime and Its Legal Implications

Video voyeurism is a digital sex crime that can result in serious consequences for someone who is convicted. If any individual is accused of video voyeurism, they should seek out an attorney who has the knowledge and legal expertise to defend them against such a severe accusation.

At The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier, the St. Petersburg sex crimes defense attorneys specialize in providing excellent legal guidance and representation for video voyeurism cases.

Understanding Video Voyeurism

Video voyeurism involves the unauthorized recording or viewing of someone in a private setting where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. This often includes places such as bathrooms, changing rooms, or any private area where people expect not to be observed or recorded.

With smartphones and hidden cameras making it easier to record and distribute these feeds and videos online, video voyeurism accusations are treated harshly in Florida courts and require the help of experienced St. Petersburg defense attorneys.

Offense Classification

If an adult aged 19 years or older is convicted of their first offense of video voyeurism, it is classified as a third-degree felony. The penalties for this offense include up to 5 years in prison, up to 5 years of probation, and fines of up to $5,000. For a minor under the age of 19, the first offense is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties in this case include up to 1 year in jail, up to 1 year of probation, and fines of up to $1,000. 

Additionally, if the offense is believed to have been committed with the intent to distribute the recorded material, it is classified as a third-degree felony regardless of the accused individual’s age.

Defending Against Video Voyeurism Charges

To be convicted of video voyeurism, you must intentionally use or install an imaging device to secretly view, broadcast, or record a person without their knowledge and consent. The recording or viewing must occur in a place and under circumstances where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

When consulting with your St. Petersburg sex crimes defense attorney with The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier, they will consider every detail of the situation to build a personalized and effective defense strategy. This may include scrutinizing the methods used to obtain video footage and ensuring your constitutional rights were not violated. In some cases, a strategy may require proving that there was no intent to invade privacy. This can be a particularly strong defense, especially as intent is a key element of a video voyeurism conviction. Your attorney may consider arguing that the victim did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in the given circumstances, which can also be a viable defense strategy.

Do Not Face a Video Voyeurism Charge Without High-Quality Representation

The repercussions of a sex crime conviction are extensive and severe. If you or a loved one are facing a video voyeurism charge, contact The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier, the law firm that specializes in defending against sex crime charges.

We have the experience to navigate your case with confidence. To request a complimentary case consultation with one of our St. Petersburg defense attorneys, call our office anytime at (727) 493-9386.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.