Question from ss, Is intentionally viewing an extreme video the same as possession under the Criminal Justice Act in England?
Answer from AI:
In England, the laws regarding viewing and possession of extreme videos are governed by the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008. The Act makes it a criminal offence to possess an extreme pornographic image, but it does not specifically address the act of viewing such content.
What does the law say about possession?
Under Section 63 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, it is an offence to possess an extreme pornographic image. The law defines an extreme pornographic image as one that is grossly offensive, disgusting, or otherwise of an obscene character and portrays in an explicit and realistic way any of the following:
- an act which threatens a person’s life,
- an act which results, or is likely to result, in serious injury to a person’s anus, breasts or genitals,
- an act which involves sexual interference with a human corpse, or
- a person performing an act of intercourse or oral sex with an animal (whether dead or alive).
What about viewing?
The Act does not specifically address the act of merely viewing such content. However, it’s important to note that downloading or streaming a video could potentially be considered as possession, as the content is temporarily stored on your device. This is a complex area of law and the interpretation can vary depending on the circumstances.
What should you do?
If you find yourself in a situation where you have unintentionally viewed such content, it’s recommended that you:
- Do not share or distribute the content in any way.
- Report the content to the Internet Watch Foundation or to the police.
- Consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.
Remember, this information is a general guide and not legal advice. Laws can change and legal interpretations can vary. Always consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.
The answer is written by AI.
The text above is written by AI, i.e., a computer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this response is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate information, we make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or legal validity of the information presented. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and can change over time, and the application of laws can vary widely based on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified legal professional before making any decisions related to legal matters. Do not rely solely on the information provided in this response for any legal decisions. We disclaim any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this response.
Related questions:
Please comment in the comment section below if something is incorrect.