Fighting Computer Crime Allegations in South Carolina

In the age of digital technology, the resources available are more advanced than ever, and the investigation and prosecution of internet and computer crimes is a key focus for local law enforcement.

Computer crimes commonly targeted for investigation and prosecution include:

• identity theft,
• internet solicitation of a minor or possessing or transferring illegal pornography such as child pornography,
• credit card fraud,
• mail fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud.

In addition to having your computer seized and searched, you will be faced with hefty fines and possible jail time, making it essential that you retain an attorney with the resources and experience necessary to defend your case and protect your legal rights aggressively.

What is Considered a Computer Crime?

A computer crime is when a person intentionally, maliciously, and without permission or for an unauthorized purpose:

• directly or indirectly accesses or causes to be accessed a computer, computer system, or computer network, with the purpose of:
  • planning or carrying out a scheme to defraud
  • obtaining money, property or services through the use of fraudulent practices,
  • committing any other crime
• contaminates, alters, damages, destroys or modifies in any way a computer, computer system, network, software, programs or the data within.

Computer Crime Offense Classifications

Computer crime offense classifications in South Carolina are determined by the monetary amount of damages in in question, either gained by the accused or lost by the victim.

• A first-degree computer crime offense in South Carolina has monetary damages of more than $10,000.
• A second-degree computer crime offense in South Carolina carries monetary damages of more than $1,000, with a maximum of $10,000.
• A third-degree computer crime offense in South Carolina has monetary damages of less than $1,000.

*Please note that each computer, computer system, or computer network involved or affected by this violation is charged separately.

Penalties for Computer Crime Offenses

• First Degree: A person convicted of a first-degree computer crime is guilty of a felony and faces a maximum fine of $50,000, a maximum of 5 years in jail, or both.
• Second Degree: A person convicted of a second-degree computer crime offense is guilty of a misdemeanor;
  • First Offense: Fined a max of $10,000, a max 1-year jail sentence, or both.
  • Second or Subsequent Offense: Fined a max of $20,000, and a max 2-year jail sentence, or both
• Third Degree: A person convicted of a third-degree computer crime offense is guilty of a misdemeanor;
  • First Offense: Fined a maximum of $200 or a maximum 30-day jail sentence.
  • Second or Subsequent Offense: Fined a max of $2,000, max 2-year jail sentence, or both

Despite the advancements in technology, getting arrested for a computer crime does not mean that you are guilty, and there are a number of defenses available to defend your case.

If you have been arrested and charged with an internet crime, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Strom Law Firm, LLC, today for a free consultation to discuss the facts of your case, including possible defenses to help you avoid fines and jail time. We offer flexible payment options and accept Visa and Mastercard.