What to Expect if You’re Facing Criminal Charges in a Privacy or Voyeurism Case
If you have been accused of recording a person in a place in which they have a “reasonable expectation of privacy,” this is known as voyeurism. A criminal offense, if you are convicted, you can expect to face steep fines, potentially jail, as well as being listed on the sex offender registry. After your time is served, you may find it difficult to find well-paying employment or to rent a decent apartment.
South Carolina law prosecutes voyeurism charges aggressively. The best way to safeguard your freedom and your future is to retain experienced counsel. Even if the allegations are false, it is crucial that you speak with the Greenville sex crime attorneys at Ryan Beasley Law as soon as possible.
What is Voyeurism?
Voyeurism is the act of viewing, photographing, or filming another person in a place where he or she has a “reasonable expectation of privacy.” Colloquially known as the “peeping tom” law, a person has a “reasonable expectation of privacy” in any place where the individual believes that they can undress without being photographed, filmed, or videotaped.
Common examples of voyeurism include:
- Watching someone through a window as the individual undresses
- Taking photos of someone as they undress in a private place
- Placing cameras in a private area, such as bedrooms or bathrooms
- Taking photos under a person’s clothing (“upskirting”)
- Taking a video or photo of your partner during sexual intercourse
Criminal Penalties for Voyeurism in Greenville, SC
Under South Carolina law, voyeurism may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony offense. As a misdemeanor, you may be sentenced to a maximum of three years in jail and/or fined $500. As a felony, you may be sentenced for five years and/or fined up to $5,000. Additionally, you will be required to register on the South Carolina Sex Offender Registry, making your photo and identifying information visible to the public.
South Carolina has an additional charge, known as aggravated voyeurism. If you are found selling or distributing pictures, video recordings, or electronic files of the victim, then you will be charged with aggravated voyeurism. Under SC Code § 16-17-470 (C), aggravated voyeurism is a felony, punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Both voyeurism and aggravated voyeurism are tier I offenses, preventing you from applying for removal from the sex offender registry until 15 years have passed.
Why You Need Representation When Facing Voyeurism Charges
Defending voyeurism charges can be challenging. In many cases, voyeurism charges can be defended by finding evidence that suggests that the victim consented to the filming or that you did not intend to infringe on the individual’s rights. While our legal team strives to have the charges against you dismissed, sometimes the best possible outcome is obtaining a reduced sentence.
By highlighting certain factors (such as if you played a minor role in the offense, if you are remorseful, or if you have no criminal record), you may receive a more lenient sentence. The prosecution will use every piece of information against you, making it essential that you obtain an experienced criminal defense lawyer to represent your interests.
Speak with Our Greenville, SC, Sex Crimes Attorneys Today
If you have been accused of voyeurism or violating a person’s privacy rights, seeking legal guidance can mean the difference between paying a fine and spending years behind bars. At Ryan Beasley Law, our legal team zealously represents individuals accused of voyeurism, obtaining relevant information to reduce or negate your culpability. To arrange your confidential consultation with one of our Greenville sex crimes lawyers, contact us online or by calling (864) 756-4204 at your earliest opportunity.