Utah’s AMENDED 2025 Sexual Extortion Law: What You Need to Know

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The Utah Legislature has passed an amendment to the state’s sexual extortion laws in the 2025 General Session. Already signed by the governor, the revised 76-5b-204 expands the legal definition of sexual extortion and introduces tougher penalties, particularly for crimes involving minors, vulnerable adults, or acts committed under coercive circumstances.

Utah criminal defense attorney Jake Gunter has 20 years of experience defending the accused. Call/TXT him at (801) 373-6345.  Free consult. 

Key Changes to Utah’s Sexual Extortion Statute in 2025. 

The amendments to Utah Code 76-5b-204 introduce several important modifications:

1. Expanded Definition of Sexual Extortion
   • Previously, sexual extortion involved coercing a victim to engage in sexual conduct or provide explicit material under threat of harm or exposure.
   • Now, threatening to distribute a “counterfeit intimate image” (a digitally altered or fake explicit image) is also considered sexual extortion.

1. Aggravated Sexual Extortion Provisions

• A crime is considered aggravated if certain factors apply, such as:
  • The victim is a minor or a vulnerable adult.
  • The offense involved violence, threats of harm, or kidnapping.
  • The offender held a position of special trust (e.g., teacher, coach, religious leader).
  • The offender had a prior sexual offense conviction.

1. Increased Penalties

• If the offender is an adult, sexual extortion is a third-degree felony.
• If the victim is an adult and the offense is aggravated, the charge increases to a second-degree felony.
• If the victim is a minor or vulnerable adult, the aggravated charge becomes a first-degree felony, carrying the harshest penalties under Utah law.
• If the offender is a minor, the penalties are lower, but serious cases (e.g., significant age differences between the parties) can still lead to felony charges.

1. Effective Date

• The bill has already been signed by the governor and is effective immediately.

Legal Implications and Defense Strategies

This law broadens the scope of criminal liability for sexual extortion and creates harsher penalties for offenders. If you are facing charges under this statute, you need an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney to help you understand your rights and build a strong defense.

Some potential defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Intent – The prosecution must prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt. If there was no intent to coerce, charges may be challenged.
• False Accusations – With digital manipulation tools widely available, it’s possible to be falsely accused based on altered evidence.
• Consent or Misunderstanding – Some cases involve misunderstandings rather than criminal intent. Context matters.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights – If law enforcement obtained evidence unlawfully, your rights may have been violated.

Utah Criminal Defense Attorney Jake Gunter understands how daunting a felony charge can be. Our team is prepared to aggressively defend your case, ensuring the best possible outcome.  Hire an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney. 

Facing Charges? Contact a Provo Criminal Defense Lawyer Today CALL/TXT UTAH CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY JAKE GUNTER (801) 373-6345.  FREE CONSULT.