Former UGA Professor Faces Federal Charges After Conduct in Athens

Athens-Clarke County Courthouse

Athens, Ga. - A former UGA professor was arrested on federal charges for possession, production, and distribution of child pornography.

He pleaded not guilty to five total charges. The man is currently prohibited from leaving the state and is subjected to a curfew. His charges stemmed from an investigation conducted by the United States Department of Homeland Security.

Even though the man is facing federal charges, Georgia has its own laws regarding child pornography. As a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer, I will cover the offense of possession of child pornography in the state of Georgia.

Possession of Child Pornography in Georgia

Possession of Child Pornography in Georgia is defined by the Georgia Code in O.C.G.A. §16-12-100 as:

It is unlawful for any person knowingly to possess or control any material which depicts a minor or a portion of a minor's body engaged in any sexually explicit conduct.

Under the statute, the material can include online files, videos, print materials, photographs, and other online materials. There are multiple ways in which a person can find themselves charged with child pornography:

• Online file sharing
• Possession of child pornography
• Producing or distributing child pornography
• Online chatting between adults and minors
• Sexual exploitation of children
• Sexting

A child pornography possession conviction is classified as a felony conviction.  The penalties can include a prison term between five and twenty years or a maximum fine of $100,000.00, or both. However, one of the most detrimental penalties is the mandatory requirement to register as a sex offender. Registering as a sex offender can make it challenging to obtain a job, move where you want, and can create tension with your community.

Practice Note

Call our offices now if you or a loved one has been arrested in the state of Georgia.