Death to Child Erotica: How Mislabeling the Evidence Can Risk Inaccuracy in the Courtroom

Authors

Mary G. Leary, Columbus School of Law at The Catholic University of America

Abstract

The article argues that the term "child erotica" is misleading and harmful as it incorrectly implies that sexually exploitative material has artistic or social value, thereby normalizing the sexual commodification of children. It advocates for the elimination of this term and suggests replacing it with more precise labels, such as "child exploitation paraphernalia" or "child sexual exploitation images," to ensure accurate legal analysis and prevent the elevation of such material to a protected status.

Disciplines

Evidence | Law | Science and Technology Law | Sexuality and the Law

Recommended Citation

Mary G. Leary, Death to Child Erotica: How Mislabeling the Evidence Can Risk Inaccuracy in the Courtroom, 16 Cardozo J. Equal Rts. & Soc. Just. 1 (2009).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cardozoersj/vol16/iss1/3