Maryland has strengthened penalties for indecent exposure when the crime involves minors. Under a new law that recently went into effect, those convicted of intentionally exposing themselves in the presence of a minor could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
Penalties may increase if the person has been convicted of indecent exposure multiple times. The judge could also add more jail time and fines if the suspect has been convicted of other sex crimes.
The previous penalties for indecent exposure included a maximum of three years in prison and fines up to $1,000. Lawmakers sought stricter consequences to address cases involving young victims.
New Standards for Proving Indecent Exposure with Minors and Impact on Security Clearances
Maryland law requires prosecutors to prove that the act was intentional and involved the exposure of genitals in public or in the presence of someone other than a spouse. Those facing indecent exposure charges often challenge the intent behind the act or claim mistaken identity.
The new law, spearheaded by Delegate Brian Crosby and supported by Senators Bailey and other legislators, specifically targets situations where the offender “knows or reasonably should know” that a minor is present. The law defines a minor as anyone at least two years old and at least four years younger than the offender.
The legislation also aims to close a loophole concerning security clearances. Previously, even those convicted of indecent exposure around minors weren’t guaranteed to lose their security clearances. Crosby explained that this change will now trigger an internal investigation and possible revocation of security clearance for offenders.
The law went into effect on Oct. 1, 2024.
The legislation had bipartisan support, but it has faced opposition from the Public Defender’s office. The Public Defender argued that the involvement of a minor doesn’t necessarily increase harm. However, advocates say the enhanced penalties are necessary to better protect minors from such incidents.
Indecent Exposure Cases Involving Minors in Maryland’s Communities
Statistics from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office show a concerning number of indecent exposure cases in recent years, with 28 juvenile victims among the 189 reported incidents since 2013.
Resort town Ocean City, Maryland has had its share of indecent exposure occurrences. In one incident, two women from upstate New York were arrested in Ocean City for indecent exposure, after one was seen swimming naked in a private pool and the other repeatedly flashed her private area to officers.
In another instance, a Cecil County prosecutor was charged with indecent exposure and disorderly conduct. Police said officers responded to a report of a nude man on a balcony at an Ocean City Hotel.
If you’re facing charges over indecent exposure, an indecent exposure lawyer can help. The attorneys at Maronick Law LLC have experience with Annapolis, Baltimore, Bel Air, Essex, Ocean City, Towson, White Marsh indecent exposure matters.
Maronick Law LLC can meet with you remotely if you have access to Zoom. You can contact the law office at 410.244.5068 or our website for a free consultation.