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New Developments in California Criminal Law Regarding Sex Crimes
California is one of the most dedicated states when it comes to abolishing sex crimes. This fact is reflected in the borderline extreme severity of sentences for related offenses and constant and consistent updates to its criminal laws, especially considering the emergence of new, previously unseen threats such as AI-generated sexual abuse material.
Today, we’ll highlight some of the most impactful legal changes pertaining to sex offenses, both effective and proposed, explaining what they mean for individuals accused or affected by the allegations – particularly those considering seeking guidance from a reputable sex crimes criminal defense lawyer in San Diego.
What are the changes in California sex crimes law in 2025?
As of January 1, 2025, California has implemented several changes to its sex crimes laws. These updates intend to protect vulnerable populations from sexual exploitation and the emerging threat of AI-generated materials, as well as close several legal loopholes that have gone unaddressed for too long.
Changes to laws on AI-generated sexual abuse materials
SB 926: Deepfakes
“Deepfake” refers to any media (i.e., image, video, audio) generated by artificial intelligence to realistically mimic a real person’s appearance, voice, or actions. Advancements in AI technology have made these synthetic materials hyper-realistic and nearly impossible to detect, opening new avenues for misuse, manipulation, and abuse. Senate Bill (SB) 926 amends §647 of the California Penal Code, making it a crime to create, distribute, or cause such materials to be distributed, especially if said materials depict minors.
AB 1831: AI-generated child sexual abuse material
Assembly Bill (AB) 1831 closes a major legal loophole by making it illegal to create, possess, or distribute AI-generated sexual abuse materials depicting children, even if the children in question are not real (i.e., their likeness is completely AI-generated).
Changes to laws on sexual exploitation and abuse on social media
SB 981: Sexually explicit images in social media
This Bill mandates that social media platforms introduce mechanisms to allow California residents to report sexually explicit materials that have been digitally altered or AI-generated to appear authentic. In addition, social media companies are obligated to take down the reported content while the complaint is being investigated.
AB 1394: Sexual exploitation on social media platforms
Per AB 1394, social media companies are now liable for sexual exploitation photos and videos posted on their platforms. Victims of child trafficking can sue these companies for up to $4 million in damages, if they in any way and knowingly facilitated the dissemination of such content.
In addition, and similarly to SB 981, social media companies are required to establish mechanisms for reporting sex abuse content and to remove said content from their platform within 36 hours of reporting.
Changes to laws on sexual exploitation and abuse (general)
SB 1414: Solicitation with a minor
Soliciting a minor under 16 is now a felony offense, even if the sexual act didn’t actually occur. Additionally, if the minor is 16 or 17, the offense becomes a wobbler, upgradable to felony if the minor was a victim of trafficking.
AB 848: Expansion of sexual battery definitions
(Introduced) May 7, 2025 (currently in committee)
Sexual battery now includes acts against individuals who are:
- Unlawfully restrained;
- Institutionalized for medical treatment;
- Severely disabled;
- Medically incapacitated.
AB 848 also addresses cases where the victim didn’t understand what was happening due to the perpetrator lying or tricking them into committing the sexual act.
SB 680: Addresses the sex offender registration loophole
(Introduced) April 9, 2025 (currently scheduled for 3rd reading)
If this bill becomes law, any adult convicted of illegal sex with a minor will be obligated to register in California’s Sex Offender Registry, even in cases where mandatory registration was previously not required.
Where can I find a specialist sex crimes criminal defense lawyer near me in San Diego?
Monder Criminal Lawyer Group offers strategic and personalized legal representation to individuals facing charges of sex crimes in San Diego. With extensive knowledge on the subject matter and a team of highly experienced attorneys, we’re capable of exploring every avenue of defense and ensuring your case has the best chance of a successful outcome. Reach out today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation at our offices near The New Children’s Museum and let us make sure your rights are upheld.
