Indecent exposure is often deemed as one of the lesser sex crime charges, but it is still a sex crime just the same. What constitutes indecent exposure? What constitutes indecent exposure can vary from state to state slightly but in general, this means revealing your generals in a public place as a means to offend someone or either provoke a sexual response or sexually gratify yourself in some way. Being charged with indecent exposure can have serious consequences, and this kind of charge is going to bring along some questions for sure. Here are a few truths you need to know about indecent exposure circumstances and charges. 

Can you be charged with indecent exposure for urinating in public?

This will ultimately depend on the state where you live and the details in the laws. For the most part, urinating in public would not be indecent exposure without some type of sexual intent. However, there can be stipulations here to be considered. Say for instance you were urinating in the middle of a busy street, with cars passing by and pedestrians in sight. In this instance, you could be charged with indecent exposure because there were so many witnesses around that you offended. On the contrary, if you were caught urinating in a dark alley behind a dumpster, a judge would probably have more leniency on you if you were arrested for indecent exposure. 

Where is the line between indecent exposure and sexual assault?

If you have been charged with indecent exposure or other sex crimes, the only way the charges can be elevated to sexual assault is if there is actually some type of physical contact, and that contact can be minuscule. For example, if you have been charged with indecent exposure, and the person who is pressing charges against you can prove you also touched them at a time you were exposed, it could become a sexual assault charge. 

Is it true that being found guilty of indecent exposure means you have to register as a sex offender?

If this was your first offense and you have no prior history of such acts, you typically do not have to register as a sex offender. For the most part, indecent exposure charges are treated as misdemeanor offenses. Second offenses, however, are charged more seriously, sometimes landing you with a felony charge, which would mean you would be required to register as a sex offender.

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