Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Invasion of privacy/distribution of pornography

A local computer business owner stole, carried on his person, viewed and distributed personal/private pictures from a customers hard drive. I contacted the local PD, seemed rather pointless. Attorney General's office suggested I contact county PA, again useless, was told to file a police report. Who do I turn this info over to? I know the customer's name but cannot locate her phone number. In addition to the hard drive theft, he has also committed insurance and tax fraud. Is there anyone I contact about these matters?


Asked on 1/23/09, 12:02 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Re: Invasion of privacy/distribution of pornography

Every criminal case must be investigated by lae enforcement (local police, county sheriff, Michigan State Police) before the prosecuting attorney can decide what charge to issue, if any. So, going right to the PA was not the answer, and being told to go to police first IS the correct response.

Which law enforcement agency to go to? You have to go to an agency that has investigative authority over the area where the crime allegedly happened. If the computer business is in a locale that has a local police department, you can go there. But you can also contact the county sheriff, and also MSP.

You didn't explain what was "pointless" about talking to the local PD office. Maybe they don't have experience investigating 'computer crimes'. If true, then MSP certainly has experience, and most sheriff departments do, too.

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Answered on 1/23/09, 12:58 pm
Timothy Klisz Klisz Law Office, PLLC

Re: Invasion of privacy/distribution of pornography

how do you figure in all this? Are you the victim of the crime? Did the computer place steal pornography or turn it over to the authorities? With some more facts, I might be albe to assist you better. www.kliszlaw.com Tim Klisz

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Answered on 1/23/09, 5:17 pm


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