Indecent Exposure and its Criminal Nature

What is indecent exposure? It is the act of intentionally revealing a portion (or more) of your body. The 'revelation' is done beyond the standards set by public laws in terms of decency. As such, it's considered an offense. 

In most public places, it is strictly prohibited to expose any private body part or lasciviously present or pose any private body part even with the presence of clothes. There are public places that can specifically tolerate nudity though like nude beaches and parks. However, for the most part, any other unwarranted and obscene 'revelation' is termed as indecent exposure.

Common Issues Related to Indecent Exposure

Other acts of indecency can still fall under the category. Even without intent or direct actions to reveal private body parts, a person can still be charged with indecent exposure. A classic example of this is women wearing see-through tops which clearly define the breasts. Acts of indecency in public can be classified under indecent exposure. A person who masturbates or a couple who engages in sexual activities in public even with clothes on, also known as “dry sex or humping” can be guilty of indecent exposure.   

The law specifies that individuals should maintain decency in attire and behavior in public places. Acts of indecent exposure can greatly disturb public peace as well as threaten other individuals in the area. The credibility and reputation of governing agencies can also be questioned due to untoward actions by offenders. It is a violation of the law thus will be penalized accordingly.

How Authorities are Handling Indecent Exposure

There are varying laws in different states about the specifics of which acts are considered to be indecent. Some states exclusively refer to men who expose erect penises in public. Women are not penalized in some areas. Breastfeeding is generally allowed in most countries based on the full right to nurse. There are laws which protect the right of women to nurse in order to encourage mothers to engage in the act and to change other people’s attitudes.

State laws prohibit exposure of the genitals or female breasts in a public area. Some states require the intent to arouse, offend or astound other persons as an effect of the exposure. There are a number of classifications that the offense may fall under depending on the nature and characteristic such as Indecent Exposure, Sexual Misconduct and Public Lewdness. The act is considered as a criminal offense. Flashing may not include any intent but due to the elements of exposure and revelation of the genitals or female breasts are present making it a criminal offense.

The effects of indecent can determine the seriousness of the offense. There is reckless disregard for the offensive, insulting and frightening effect of the act which may alarm or place other persons in unreasonable circumstances. Owners of structures are not allowed to use or have their property used in advocating or promoting nudism.

Sanctions for Offenders

Offenders may be registered as sex offenders if the offense is serious. Penalties can be imposed in fines and imprisonment. Fines can range from $500 to $100,000 and offenders can be imprisoned from one day to three years. If there are several counts of indecency, the offender may have to be put on probation or referred to a psychiatric agency for treatment and rehabilitation.

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