If I’m a 20 year old female and was in a relationship with 16 year old male that has ended, does he have any grounds to get me into legal trouble?
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If I’m a 20 year old female and was in a relationship with 16 year old male that has ended, does he have any grounds to get me into legal trouble?
He had some of my belongings which I went to pick up and was verbally assaulted. Then 1-2 months ago, I was sent a sexual image from him and was told by him that he is going to the police for child pornography. I deleted the image immediately.
Asked on January 14, 2016 under Criminal Law, New York
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
You need to stick to boyfriends who are over eighteen years of age. The law doesn't distinguish between sixteen year old boys or girls when it comes to sexual assault... so you do have some potential liability. However, his claim that he is going to the police for child pornography is stupid. He created the image and sent it to you... and you deleted it. He can't complain of an event that he initiated.
Going forward, you need to record any conversations that you have with him and preserve any text messages that document his threats over you. In the event that he does go to the police, you'll have some evidence that he is a willing participant and he is not an 'innocent child' in this situation. If he can manipulate like an adult male, then he should be treated like an adult male. At least that's the argument to be made.
If you do get contacted by the police, do not go alone. Make sure that you retain an attorney to accompany you for any meetings with law enforcement. This is a serious charge which can have devastating long term consequences. You will need legal assistance if it goes that far.
In the mean time...cut your ties with this kid. Do not engage in any type of sexual relations with him... whether it be physical contact or 'sexting'.... either will increase your risk to criminal prosecution.
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