Understanding Minnesota’s Child Pornography Law: What You Need to Know About Statute 617.246
Being charged with a child pornography offense in Minnesota is an extremely serious matter that carries devastating consequences — personally, professionally, and legally. Under Minnesota Statute §617.246, the law is clear, unforgiving, and, in many cases, shockingly strict. If you’ve been charged or are under investigation, it is critical to understand your rights, the nature of the charges, and why experienced legal representation matters.
“You ask a child to give you a nude photo, you could face this, even if you are a child yourself.”
What Does Minnesota Statute 617.246 Say?
Minnesota Statute §617.246 criminalizes the possession, distribution, and creation of sexually explicit material involving minors. What makes this law particularly harsh is that it is effectively a strict liability statute. That means:
If the individual depicted is under 18, the law considers it a crime — regardless of what you were told.
It does not matter if the person told you they were an adult.
It does not matter if they showed you a fake ID or other convincing “proof.”
Even if a parent or guardian gave consent (which is not legally valid), it does not provide a defense.
This level of strict liability means that good intentions, misunderstandings, or deception on the part of the depicted individual do not protect you from prosecution.
What Are the Penalties?
Convictions under this statute can lead to lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and life-altering collateral consequences. A conviction can impact everything from your ability to work to where you can live.
What Should You Do If You’re Charged?
If you’ve been arrested, charged, or are under investigation for a child pornography offense in Minnesota, the worst thing you can do is wait or try to explain yourself to law enforcement. These cases are complex, emotionally charged, and often misunderstood — even by the people involved.
That’s why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands how to navigate these difficult and highly technical cases.
“This statute is like a nuclear bomb. You could be mistaken, confused or even lied to. It doesn’t matter.”
Why Choose Jack Rice Defense?
Jack Rice is a former prosecutor and a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney with decades of experience representing people facing some of the most serious criminal allegations in Minnesota. At Jack Rice Defense, we know that every case is different. We also know that people are often blindsided by charges like these — sometimes based on misinformation, mistaken identity, or digital evidence that doesn’t tell the full story.
We don’t judge. We defend. Our mission is to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the vigorous, ethical, and strategic representation that your case demands.
Get Help Now — Confidential, Free Consultation
If you're facing child pornography charges in Minnesota — or believe you may be under investigation — do not speak to police or anyone else without legal representation. Instead, contact Jack Rice Defense immediately for a free and completely confidential consultation:
📞 Call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339
Don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better we can protect you.
