This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 61-8C-2a, to the Code of West Virginia, specifically addressing the manipulation of media involving minors in sexually explicit conduct. It establishes a new criminal offense for individuals who modify photographs, images, video clips, movies, or similar recordings by inserting the visual image of an actual minor, thereby creating the false appearance that the minor is engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The bill defines "actual minor" as a living or once-living person whose image was captured when they were under the age of 18 and later manipulated into such media.

The legislation clarifies that this new offense is separate and distinct from any other offenses outlined in the code. Upon conviction, individuals found guilty of this felony could face a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment in a state correctional facility for a term ranging from one to five years, or both penalties. The bill aims to strengthen legal protections for minors against the exploitation of their images in sexually explicit contexts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8C-2a