Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What is the adult guilty of if they give a minor an old cell phone containing pornographic images?

1. Child pornography

2. Harmful material

3. Contributing to the delinquency of a minor

4. Sexual exploitation

The correct answer is: Harmful material

The appropriate response to this scenario involves understanding the implications of providing a minor with a device that contains pornographic material. When an adult gives a minor an old cell phone that has pornographic images, this act can be categorized as distributing harmful material. Harmful material is generally defined as any content that is likely to be detrimental to a minor's mental health or moral well-being, which includes pornography. In many jurisdictions, the law specifically addresses the distribution of such material to minors and considers it a serious offense. This situation doesn't merely relate to the act of possession or the inherent nature of the images, but it also emphasizes the adult's responsibility regarding what they provide to a minor. While there are other potential charges, such as child pornography or contributing to the delinquency of a minor, the direct act of giving a minor access to harmful material through a device aligns closely with the definition of distribution of harmful material. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the legal responsibilities and potential consequences of an adult's actions in relation to minors.