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Q&A

Have a question about how to delete digital drama from your life? You can submit questions to be answered by trained experts by sending an email to QandA@athinline.org. We will not be able to post an answer to every individual question, but we will answer the most common, so check back often.

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QUESTION

If a young male and female who are dating and both under the age of 18 are caught sexting and are reported to the police, could they be put in jail or could both of them be registered as sex offenders?

ANSWER

Theoretically, both could be arrested and jailed. The fact that they are dating makes no difference under US federal law. However, some new state laws take into consideration the fact that a couple is dating and that the picture has not been shared outside of the two of them, or shared with anyone other than the two of them.

This information is provided by Parry Aftab, Executive Director of WiredSafety.org & Stopcyberbullying.org

 

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