Who is at risk for serious penalties under Missouri’s child pornography laws?

Individuals involved in production or distribution of child pornography in Missouri face serious penalties under the state’s laws. This is because the law specifically targets actions that contribute to the creation and dissemination of such material, recognizing the significant harm that these activities inflict on minors. Engaging in production or distribution is seen as a serious offense because it not only violates the rights of minors but also perpetuates a cycle of exploitation and abuse.

Those simply using social media or being general internet users may be subject to different legal considerations, which do not carry the same level of severity as engaging in the production or distribution process. Being only a minor does not exempt someone from the law, but it also does not carry the same implications as being the one who produces or distributes the content. Therefore, the focus of Missouri's child pornography laws is firmly on individuals who take active roles in creating and sharing illegal materials.