Authorities Warn of Heavy Penalty For Sharing Sexual Images Without Consent

Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the sharing of private, sexual photographs and films without the consent of the individuals involved.

This caution comes in response to a surge in complaints about intimate images being distributed on public forums and among individuals without permission.

According to the police, the unauthorized sharing of such materials is classified as a criminal offence under Section 47 of the Sexual Offences Ordinance (2021).

Specifically, it is an offence to disclose a private sexual photograph or film if the disclosure is made without the consent of the individual depicted and if the intent behind the disclosure is to cause distress to the individual.

The penalties for this offence are severe, the police said, noting that on summary conviction the imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. Furthermore, for conviction on Indictment imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.

The RTCIPF has emphasized its commitment to treating all reports of such incidents with utmost seriousness and has pledged to take robust action against those found to be involved in these activities. The force has urged the public to refrain from forwarding or sharing intimate images received without explicit consent, warning that even those who did not actively seek out the material could face investigation and prosecution.

It advised that individuals who come across such material are to consider the severe emotional and legal repercussions for the person depicted, as well as the potential consequences for themselves.

“The RTCIPF's message is clear. Think very carefully before engaging in any action that could perpetuate the distress caused by the non-consensual sharing of intimate images,” a release from the police stated.