Legal Question in Criminal Law in Wisconsin

i was in a yahoo chat room and had extensive conversation with a female that was of a very graphic sexual nature. All of this was save in my account in a chat history. I have decided to repost these convesations in the main chat room so all users can see our conversation, is this illegal in any way or could i be charged with any crime?


Asked on 5/23/12, 1:46 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

JAY Nixon nixon law offices

Yes, if the "female" who you thought that you were dealing with turned out to actually be either a minor, or a law enforcement officer posing as a minor (i.e., a sex offense sting operation), you could be charged with numerous crimes related to soliciting illegal sexual contact with a minor or with similar attempted crimes. Unless you are absolutely certain who you are dealing with (and you can never be absolutely certain online), posting any sort of graphic sexually charged conversation online is probably a very bad idea, particularly if minors can potentially access these materials. Proof that you knew you were dealing with a minor is technically not a requirement to obtain a conviction for most sex offenses which become illegal due to one participant being a minor. The conduct which you mention could also get you in trouble if you are already a registered sex offender and your rules of supervision prohibit it. My comments here are for public educational purposes only and are not legal advice specifically tailored to your specific situation. You should therefore retain a lawyer in order to meet your legal needs, or at least schedule a private consultation with one. I am not your attorney and will not be taking any action on your case. Disclosure of confidential information in a public web forum is not recommended and is always subject to possible use against you later, in court. However, you are welcome to contact my Racine, WI office at 262-633-3090 or email me at [email protected] with further questions. Web forum answers may contain attorney advertising materials.

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Answered on 5/24/12, 2:48 pm


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