SOUTHERN BORN
TEXAS RAISED
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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
Atascosa Office:
216 N Bryant St
Pleasanton, Texas 78064
FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR
PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE
NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE
CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE
BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW
OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW
WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?
Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
Internet and Electronic Crimes
San Antonio Online Solicitation Attorney
Overview of Internet Crimes in Texas
Attorney Brad Thornton of San Antonio is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney who provides comprehensive legal representation for those accused of internet crimes in Texas, including charges such as Online Solicitation of a Minor, Possession of Child Pornography, and Online Impersonation.
Attorney Thornton understands the difficulty and stress that comes with these charge, so he takes great care to ensure his clients’ best interests are preserved throughout all aspects of the case. Attorney Thornton will carefully analyze your individual situation, explain the applicable laws and their potential implications, discuss available defenses and options, and create a strategic plan tailored to your needs. Attorney Thornton fights hard to vigorously protect his client’s rights at each stage of the process.
Type of Internet Crimes in Texas
Online Solicitation of a Minor
Online solicitation of a minor occurs when someone 17 years old or older communicates in a sexually explicit manner with someone under 17 through electronic means such as text messages, emails, chat rooms and social media platforms. In Texas, this is a third degree felony.
Possession of Child Pornography
Possession of Child Pornography happens when an individual knowingly or intentionally possesses visual material depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct. The level of offense depends on many factors but can range from a third to first degree felony.
Online Impersonation
Online Impersonation takes place when one person uses another person's name or persona to create a web page, email account, or fake social media profile for the purpose of harming that person.
If you have been accused of any of these crimes Attorney Thornton is here to provide the experienced legal defense you need. He will work hard to develop an effective strategy on your behalf and ensure your rights are fully protected throughout the entire process.
Defenses to Internet Crimes in Texas
Texas law enforcement takes internet crimes very seriously, and those who are accused of breaking the law can face serious penalties if found guilty. However, defendants may have certain legal defenses available to them that could help mitigate their sentence or exonerate them completely from the charges. Here are some of the more common legal defenses used in Texas for internet crime cases involving Online Solicitation of a Minor, Possession of Child Pornography, and Online Impersonation:
Online Solicitation of a Minor
In most online solicitation cases, the prosecution must prove that the defendant had a specific intent to commit an illegal act. This means they must demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant was fully aware they were engaging in criminal activity. The defense may be able to refute this by showing the accused was not actually trying to solicit a minor, but instead was engaged in a consensual activity or simply joking around.
Possession of Child Pornography
In these cases, the prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly possessed illegal material involving minors. However, defendants may have an alibi defense available if they did not have access to the computer/device where child pornography was found or if someone else had access and could have downloaded it without their knowledge. The defense could also argue that the images were for legitimate artistic purposes or for educational research.
Online Impersonation
The defense may be able to argue that the person being impersonated gave consent or condoned it as harmless fun. Additionally, the impersonator may be able to show that they intended no harm to the victim and were not trying to defame, threaten or blackmail them. The defense could also argue that the conduct does not meet the legal definition of online impersonation in Texas.
In order for these defenses to be successful, defendants must have an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who can present their case in a compelling manner. If you are facing charges related to internet crimes in Texas, it is important that you speak with an experienced attorney who can understand your situation and ensure your rights are protected.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court room fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the "other side" and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
Punishment Ranges
Level of Offense
Potential Incarceration
Potential Fine
First-degree Felony
Second-degree Felony
Third-degree Felony
State Jail Felony
Class A Misdemeanor
Class B Misdemeanor
2 - 10 years in prison
180 days - 2 years in jail
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to 180 days in jail
2 - 20 years in prison
5 - 99 years in prison
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $4,000
Up to $2,000
David I.
Seguin, Texas
Brad was great from the moment he looked at my case. Despite his busy schedule, he made himself easily available, walked us through every detail with care and professionalism, and worked out a great deal with the prosecutor that was much better than any outcome we could have imagined. I don’t plan on needing his assistance again, but if I’m ever unfortunate enough to find myself in another legal bind, Brad will be my first call.
Brian F.
San Antonio, Texas
I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.
Elaine B.
San Antonio, Texas
Brad is an amazing attorney, and I highly recommend him! He has deep knowledge and understanding how to navigate the law to support his clients. He has a way with people, and truly has his focus on client care and supporting them, during a time that’s usually stressful for clients. He was able to support in getting my case dismissed in less than 2 months and was attentive and personable during the whole process. You have a choice when deciding who’s going to represent you, and to have an attorney that genuinely cares for his clients should be an expectation anyone should set. Brad will meet that expectation 110%!
Kevin E.
Jourdanton, Texas
[Brad] made the process very easy for me, handling everything within a month, with a motion to dismiss all cases against me. I only had to attend court once! The portal he uses to make sure you are aware of everything going on in your case is awesome, I didn’t even have to worry everything got downloaded to the portal with email notifications. I would never use another attorney to represent me, he is the best at what he does.