Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | May 13, 2025 | Criminal Defense

Surprising Things That Can Make You a Sex Offender

Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 62 governs the state’s Sex Offender Registration Program. Anyone convicted of a reportable conviction must register with law enforcement and appear on the Texas Sex Offender Registry. Many sex crimes require convicted offenders to register. However, some of the offenses on the list may be surprising.

Surprising things that can make you a sex offender in Texas include, but are not limited to:

  • Solicitation of Prostitution

Many people do not see soliciting a prostitute on the same level as being a sexual predator. The sex is consensual. However, when the offense is punishable as a second-degree felony, it is a reportable conviction for the sex offender registry.

  • Aggravated Kidnapping

Kidnapping is generally not a criminal offense associated with the sex offender registry. However, if the defendant committed the crime or engaged in conduct with the intent to abuse the victim sexually, they must register as a sex offender if they are convicted.

  • Burglary

Burglary can also be an offense that results in becoming a sex offender. If the person committed the crime with the intent to commit aggravated sexual assault, sexual abuse of a young child or disabled person, or prohibited sexual conduct, a conviction could result in being on the sex offender registry.

  • Indecent Exposure

A second violation of indecent exposure could result in registration as a sex offender unless the second violation results in a deferred adjudication. The prosecution may charge someone with indecent exposure for a variety of offenses, including flashing, urinating in public, and having consensual sex in public.

  • Sexting as a Minor

Sexting is the act of receiving, forwarding, or sending messages of a sexual nature, including nude images or photographs, via cell phones or digital devices. It is not illegal for consenting adults to engage in sexting.

However, minors could be charged with child pornography for taking nude photographs of themselves. Child pornography is an offense that could result in registration as a sex offender.

  • Incest

Incest is illegal in Texas. Sex between blood relatives could result in criminal charges. It could also result in being added to the sex offender registry if you are convicted. It does not matter whether the sex was consensual or abusive.

  • Sexual Activity Between Minors

Teenagers having consensual sex could result in one or both minors becoming sex offenders. Several defenses could apply, but in some situations, the law views sex between minors as statutory rape.

What Are the Registration Requirements for the Sex Offender Registry in Fort Worth, TX?

If you are convicted of a sex crime that requires registration as a sex offender, you have seven days from your sentencing or release from custody to register. You must provide specific information to the local police department where you live. The information includes:

  • Your name and physical address
  • Your birth date, Social Security number, and driver’s license number
  • A recent photo and your fingerprints
  • A physical description of yourself
  • Any aliases you are known by or have used
  • The criminal offense for your conviction, the conviction date, the victim’s age, and the penalties you received
  • Copies of business and professional licenses
  • The names and addresses of your employers or school, if you attend school
  • Your vehicle registration number

The police department may require you to provide additional information. You are responsible for updating any information that changes within seven days of the change. Generally, offenders must verify their information in person each year. In some cases, an offender may be required to verify their information every 90 days or more frequently.

The length of time you remain on the sex offender list varies. Some people may only need to register for a specific number of years, while other offenders remain on the registry for their entire lives.

What Happens if I Do Not Register as a Sex Offender After a Sex Crimes Conviction in Texas?

You might disagree with the order requiring you to register as a sex offender. However, failing to register can result in severe penalties. You can be charged and sent to jail for 180 days to two years for a minor offense. A serious offense could result in a prison term of two to 20 years.

Don’t Risk Being Branded a Sex Offender Without a Fight

If you are charged with a sex crime, you deserve to have a strong defense. The best way to protect your right to a fair trial is with the help of an experienced Fort Worth sex crimes lawyer. Schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer to learn about your options for a defense or plea deal.

For more information, please contact the criminal defense law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:

We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.

Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102