Practice Safe Sexting
The meaning and practice of sexting can vary from person to person. However, many perceive sexting to mean sending nude photos to each other. With the rise of apps like Snapchat, this can be done easily and efficiently, but it can be very dangerous. It is quick and easy to save a photo and upload it on the Internet. But for teenagers, sexting can land you in court or even prison.
A Virginia teen may be facing prison time for partaking in the popular activity of “sexting.” Although sexting may have become a more accepted practice within young couples, when teenagers partake in the activity, it can be viewed as distribution of child pornography if they are under the age of 18.
Be careful with whom you sext. (Photo: Tom Jacobs/Pacific Standard)
Trey Simms, 17, from Manassas, Va. was caught red-handed sexting his girlfriend and is now facing two felony charges. He was charged with manufacturing and distributing child pornography in January 2014 while sexting his then-girlfriend who was 15 at the time. His iPhone and iPad were seized upon being taken into custody by the police.
According to NBC4, Simms was taken to a room and had pictures taken of his genitalia. Although he refused, he was told if he did not cooperate, the photos would have to be taken by force. However, Simms’ troubles didn’t end there. On Thursday, July 3, a local magistrate signed off on a new search warrant seeking more nude photos of Simms’ genitalia for evidence. According to Simms, the police said they wanted to force him to become aroused. Simms’ lawyers said that the police were looking to take a photo of the erect penis by “forcing him to a hospital and giving him an injection.”
Simms’ defense attorney has questioned why Simms is the only minor on trial. If convicted, he would face prison time and would have to register as a sex offender. Simms is due in court in August, when a judge will decide if his case will go to trial.
It is important to remember that even through apps like Snapchat, it is easy to save a nude photo on your phone and post it to the Internet. If your partner is interested in a little sexting, be cautious and ensure that you fully trust the person before sending them a photo of yourself. And if you are under 18, just say no. The consequences are not worth the photo.
