Understanding the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section: A Legal Overview
Definition & meaning
The Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) is a division of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) focused on protecting children from exploitation and obscenity. Established in 1987, CEOS enforces federal laws that address crimes against children, including child pornography and trafficking. The section works to ensure the safety and welfare of children and communities across the United States.
Legal use & context
CEOS plays a critical role in the criminal justice system by prosecuting individuals who violate federal child exploitation laws. This includes a range of legal practices such as:
- Criminal prosecutions for child exploitation and obscenity offenses.
- Assisting U.S. Attorney Offices with investigations, trials, and appeals.
- Providing training to law enforcement and legal professionals.
Users may find relevant legal forms and templates through US Legal Forms to assist in navigating related legal processes.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A federal prosecutor from CEOS successfully prosecutes an individual for distributing child pornography, leading to a significant prison sentence.
Example 2: CEOS collaborates with local law enforcement to investigate a case of child trafficking, resulting in the rescue of several victims and multiple arrests. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
Key federal laws related to child exploitation include:
- 18 U.S.C. § 2251: Prohibits the production of child pornography.
- 18 U.S.C. § 2252: Addresses the distribution and possession of child pornography.
- 18 U.S.C. § 1591: Criminalizes sex trafficking of children.