Maryland indecent exposure laws explained

On Behalf of | Aug 8, 2016 | Sex Crimes

Maryland, like many states, has indecent exposure laws. Indecent exposure is the intentional exposing of your genitals in a public place for sexual gratification or to alarm others. Maryland, unlike many states, has not codified indecent exposure. Therefore, it relies primarily on the judge-made law to outline the rules. Nonetheless, state law does employ many standard elements.

In Maryland, you can be convicted of indecent exposure if you willfully and intentionally expose your private parts, in a public place, in the presence of others. “Private parts” are defined as genitals, buttocks, and female breasts. The “presence of others” means exposing yourself in a manner that is likely to be seen by a casual observer. As you can see, the Maryland does not require you to intend to alarm someone or for sexual gratification, the mere act of exposing yourself can lead to charges.

Inmates also can also face indecent exposure charges if they expose themselves in the presence of guards with the intent to harass, annoy or embarrass.

If you are convicted, you can face up to three years of incarceration and a $1,000 fine. But there is good news, Maryland, unlike many states, does not require that people convicted of indecent exposure register as a sex offender. A notable exception is if you expose yourself to a person under the age of 18 and the nature of the crime was sexual.

If you are facing an indecent exposure charge, then you may want to speak to a defense lawyer. You can face a maximum of three years behind bars if successfully convicted. Indecent exposure is one of the more serious misdemeanor charges you can face. Don’t take these accusations lightly, depending on your situation; you could face serious penalties. A lawyer can help you prepare a strong defense to ensure that the courts and the prosecutors respect your rights.

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