Maryland § 3-709

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 3-709, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3-709.

    (a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

        (2)    “Intimate parts” has the meaning stated in § 3–809 of this title.

        (3)    “Sexual activity” has the meaning stated in § 3–809 of this title.

    (b)    A person may not cause another to:

        (1)    engage in an act of sexual activity by threatening to:

            (i)    accuse any person of a crime or of anything that, if true, would bring the person into contempt or disrepute;

            (ii)    cause physical injury to a person;

            (iii)    inflict emotional distress on a person;

            (iv)    cause economic damage to a person; or

            (v)    cause damage to the property of a person; or

        (2)    engage as a subject in the production of a visual representation or performance that depicts the other with the other’s intimate parts exposed or engaging in or simulating an act of sexual activity by threatening to:

            (i)    accuse any person of a crime or of anything that, if true, would bring the person into contempt or disrepute;

            (ii)    cause physical injury to a person;

            (iii)    inflict emotional distress on a person;

            (iv)    cause economic damage to a person; or

            (v)    cause damage to the property of a person.

    (c)    A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.

    (d)    A sentence imposed under this section may be separate from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for any crime based on the act establishing the violation of this section.

    (e)    A visual representation depicting a victim that is part of a court record for a case arising from a prosecution under this section:

        (1)    subject to item (2) of this subsection, may not be made available for public inspection; and

        (2)    except as otherwise ordered by the court, may only be made available for inspection in relation to a criminal charge under this section to:

            (i)    court personnel;

            (ii)    a jury in a criminal case brought under this section;

            (iii)    the State’s Attorney or the State’s Attorney’s designee;

            (iv)    the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee;

            (v)    a law enforcement officer;

            (vi)    the defendant or the defendant’s attorney; or

            (vii)    the victim or the victim’s attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 3-709

What does Maryland Code § 3-709 cover?

Section 3-709 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. 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 Maryland § 3-709?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 3-709" (Maryland). 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 Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 3-709 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland 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 Maryland.