Sexting Forum Set for October 29, 2009

Is sexting, the sending of sexually graphic imagery, usually nudity, via cell phones, harmless teenage fun or a crime?

Minors across the country caught sending nude photos of friends or even themselves are facing serious legal charges, including child pornography. Most young people and their parents are unaware of the grave and lasting consequences of a child pornography conviction.

Members of the community are invited to an educational forum to learn more about sexting and how our law enforcement, legal and political communities are dealing with this latest teen fad. The forum, sponsored by Citizens Against Pornography (CAP), will be held in the Hall at Mary, Mother of the Church (located at 5901 Kerth Road, St. Louis MO 63128) on Thursday, October 29th, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Community experts will be on hand to present information and answer questions including Police Lieutenant Joe Laramie, Director of the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Dr. John Splinter, Psychologist and St. Louis Director of the National Coalition for the Protection of Children and Families. Additional panelist includes Senator Jim Lembke from Missouri’s first district. Senator Lembke will share his concerns about sexting not only as a legislator, but as a father of two teenage children. Cristiana Zipay, a senior from Lutheran South High School will also be on hand to present her award winning essay on the subject of sexting.

If your child or grandchild has a cell phone, you will not want to miss this event.

For more information, contact CAP Chairman Carl Hendrickson at (314) 892-6451 or email him at Carl@Hendricksons.org.