Indiana § 35-42-4-12 - Sex offender Internet offense
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 35-42-4-12 — Sex offender Internet offense, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 35-42-4-12. Sex offender Internet offense
Sec. 12. (a) This section applies only to a sex offender (as defined in IC 11-8-8-4.5).
(b) A sex offender who knowingly or intentionally violates a:
(1) condition of probation;
(2) condition of parole; or
(3) rule of a community transition program;
that prohibits the offender from using a social networking web site or an instant messaging or chat room program to communicate with a child less than sixteen (16) years of age commits a sex offender Internet offense, a Class A misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Level 6 felony if the person has a prior unrelated conviction under this section.
(c) It is a defense to a prosecution under subsection (b) that the person reasonably believed that the child was at least sixteen (16) years of age.
As added by P.L.119-2008, SEC.18. Amended by P.L.247-2013, SEC.8; P.L.158-2013, SEC.448; P.L.168-2014, SEC.73; P.L.5-2022, SEC.4.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 35-42-4-12
What does Indiana Code § 35-42-4-12 cover?
Section 35-42-4-12 ("Sex offender Internet offense") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 35-42-4-12?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 35-42-4-12" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 35-42-4-12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.