573.200. Child used in sexual performance — penalties.
It’s a felony to involve a child in any sexual performance.
This law makes it illegal to cause, allow, or agree to a child under 18 taking part in any performance that includes sexual content. It also increases penalties if the child suffers serious emotional harm.
1. A person commits child used in sexual performance if they knowingly:
- Hire, direct, or persuade a child under 18 to be in a performance that includes sexual acts; or
- Are the parent, guardian, or custodian and allow the child to take part in such a performance.
2. The penalties are:
- Class C felony by default;
- Class B felony if the child suffers serious emotional injury because of it.
3. If someone has already been convicted under this law, the court is not allowed to give them a suspended sentence.
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