January 10, 2017
Judge Tom
Comments Off on Judge Tom

Judge Tom

Based on the circumstances you have described, it’s very unlikely that she would be facing legal consequences for what she did. Sending a picture of herself in a bikini most likely is not illegal. And since she did not share, distribute, etc., the nude photo of the boy, she probably did not do anything unlawful. You do need to refer to the sexting laws in your state (click the link and look at the laws in PA). Finally, as a friend, you could simply tell her that you’re there for her and ask if there’s anything you can do. Gently remind her that sending any pictures to someone she doesn’t know and who she met online is a horrible idea, could lead to criminal charges depending on what happens and most importantly, can be very dangerous considering online predators and such. Thank you for your question and good luck to your friend. (Check our Teen Help Network for more help and resources in your area. This is information only – not legal advice.)

Judge Tom

The Author Judge Tom

Judge Tom is the founder and moderator of AsktheJudge.info. He is a retired juvenile judge and spent 23 years on the bench. He has written several books for lawyers and judges as well as teens and parents including 'Teen Cyberbullying Investigated' (Free Spirit Publishing) and 'Every Vote Matters: the Power of Your Voice, from Student Elections to the Supreme Court' (Free Spirit Publishing). In 2020, the American Bar Association published "Cyberbullying Law," the nation's first case-law book written for lawyers, judges and law students. When he's not answering teens' questions, Judge Tom volunteers with the American Red Cross and can be found hiking, traveling and reading.