Florida backup quarterback Jalen Kitna was jailed for two counts of distribution of child exploitation material and three counts of possession. Keep reading to learn more.
The Charges
Kitna was arrested for five charges related to distribution and possession of child exploitation material. He is facing second-degree felony charges and a potential prison sentence of 15 years and fines up to $10,000. Kitna stands accused of being in possession but also distributing an image of child sexual abuse on Discord. Police received the tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
The University of Florida Athletic Association expressed surprise at the athlete’s actions and told journalists, “We are shocked and saddened to hear the news involving Jalen Kitna. These are extremely serious charges and the University of Florida and the UAA have zero tolerance for such behavior.”
Child Pornography in Florida
Child pornography or child exploitation material is any image depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct. Conviction of child pornography is a serious felony punishable by jail time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Additionally, there are lifelong penalties like the loss of rights and exclusion from society.
Typically, prosecution of child exploitation material applies to cases where a person is in possession of materials or attempting to distribute them. People may be charged with distribution if they film, photograph, solicit, and sell materials. Additionally, the number of materials can impact the severity of the charges. For example, if a person is in possession of 300 images, they could face harsher penalties than someone in possession of 100 images.
Defenses for Child Exploitation Material Charges
Child exploitation is inexcusable. However, in some cases, an individual may be wrongly accused of these charges. Wrongful accusations are extremely damaging and when they involve sex crimes of any kind, can leave a stain on a person’s reputation for life.
If you have been wrongfully accused of child exploitation material contact Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A.