TCA 37-1-148
Illegal use of telecommunication device by minor
PENDINGUnknown
What does this charge mean?
A minor commits an offense by using a phone or electronic device to send, share, or publish sexually explicit images or videos involving a minor, or by intentionally possessing such material. **Exception:** A minor who did not ask for the material and either deleted it or reported it to a parent, school, or police is not guilty. **Penalty:** This is considered an "unruly act" and the court can impose consequences as it deems appropriate.
Penalty Details
ClassificationUnknown
Penalty SummaryClassification not specified
(a) A minor commits illegal use of a telecommunication device who: (1) Intentionally or knowingly, by use of a telecommunication device, transmits, distributes, publishes, or disseminates a photograph, video, or other material that contains a sexually explicit image of a minor or an image of sexual activity involving a minor; or (2) Intentionally possesses a photograph, video, or other material that contains a sexually explicit image of a minor or an image of sexual activity involving a minor. (b) A minor does not violate subdivision (a)(2) if: (1) The minor did not solicit the photograph, video, or other material; and (2) The minor: (A) Deleted the photograph, video, or other material; or (B) Reported the photograph, video, or other material to the minor’s parent or legal guardian or to a school or law enforcement official. (c) Illegal use of a telecommunication device committed under subsection (a) is considered an unruly act, for which a court may make a disposition as authorized by § 37-1-132.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
PENDING
TCA Section37-1-148