Is Viewing Extreme Pornography Illegal in England?

Question from fasd, Is Viewing Extreme Pornography Illegal in England?

Answer from AI:

In England, the legality of viewing pornography, including extreme pornography, is governed by several laws. It’s important to understand what is meant by “extreme pornography” in the legal context.

Definition of Extreme Pornography

Under the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, extreme pornography is defined as images that portray, in an explicit and realistic way, any of the following:

• Acts which threaten a person’s life.
• Acts which result in or are likely to result in serious injury to a person’s anus, breasts, or genitals.
• Bestiality.
• Acts of necrophilia.

These images must also be grossly offensive, disgusting, or otherwise of an obscene character.

Legality of Viewing Extreme Pornography

It is illegal to possess extreme pornographic images in England. This means that if someone intentionally downloads, stores, or keeps such images on their device, they could be committing an offence. However, the mere act of viewing such content online without deliberately downloading or saving it may fall into a grey area. The law primarily targets possession rather than the act of viewing.

Intentional Access

If someone intentionally seeks out and views extreme pornography, there could be legal consequences, especially if there is evidence of repeated access or if the individual has taken steps to save or distribute the content.

Public Access

Viewing pornography in a public setting can lead to other legal issues. For example, if someone views such material in a way that exposes it to others who may be offended or disturbed, they could be charged with offences such as outraging public decency or causing harassment, alarm, or distress under the Public Order Act 1986.

Legal Advice and Further Action

If you are concerned about the legality of certain online activities or content, it is crucial to seek personalized legal advice. A legal professional can provide guidance based on the specifics of your situation. For more information on the laws regarding extreme pornography, you can refer to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008.

Remember, laws can change, and legal interpretations can vary, so it’s important to consult with a legal professional for the most current and personalized advice.