Are you accused of indecent exposure in Texas? If so, you’re probably wondering about the penalties involved and reasonably so. While indecent exposure is a misdemeanor offense, a conviction would still have long-lasting consequences. This is because criminal records last indefinitely, and they can affect your housing and more importantly, your employment opportunities for years to come.
Indecent exposure may seem like a “laughable offense,” like a joke, but we assure you it’s not. Can you imagine having to explain what happened every time you applied for an apartment, a professional license, or a job? Sex offenses are not only embarrassing, they have a stigma attached. For example, employers may immediately think you’re “creepy” or sexually deviant, and not want to hire you.
Indecent Exposure in Texas Defined
Under Section 21.08 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits the offense of indecent exposure when he or she exposes their anus or any part of their genitals for the purpose of arousing another person’s sexual desire, and the offender is reckless about how others will be alarmed or offended by their act.
Examples of indecent exposure:
- At an amusement park, a man pulls down his pants, bends over and shows his buttocks to a crowd of people.
- A woman takes off all of her clothes while changing at a public beach.
- A man runs naked down a freeway.
- At a nightclub, a man pulls down his pants and underwear to get onlookers’ attention.
- While in public, a woman wears a very short skirt with no underwear and anyone who’s around can see her genitals.
- A drunk man walks down a public street, takes off all his clothing and makes sexual comments to the women in the crowd.
Indecent exposure under Sec. 21.08 of the Penal Code is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail.
Facing indecent exposure charges? Contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC today.