Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-709 is an essential law that protects individuals against the sharing of intimate images or videos without their consent, commonly known as revenge porn. The statute makes it a criminal offense to disseminate, distribute, or publish an intimate image of an individual without their consent and with the intent to harass, alarm, or embarrass them.
The law defines an intimate image as any photograph, film, videotape, or digital recording that depicts nudity, sexual activity, or a person’s intimate parts. If someone shares an intimate image of another person without their consent, they can be charged with a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
The law also makes it illegal to threaten to share intimate images of someone else, even if the individual never actually shares the images. Threatening to share an intimate image can result in a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
Revenge porn is a serious offense that can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s personal and professional life. It can lead to humiliation, anxiety, and depression. The Maryland law recognizes the harmful nature of revenge porn and provides a legal recourse for victims.
If you or someone you know is a victim of revenge porn, you should consult a lawyer who is experienced with these issues.
