Texas Indecent Exposure Laws

As in other states, indecent exposure is considered a sexual offense in Texas. In order for a defendant to be convicted on a charge of indecent exposure, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant exposed his anus or any part of his genitals with the intent to arouse the sexual desire of any person, and that he is reckless about whether another person is present who may be alarmed or offended by this act.

If there is any unwanted touching involved (such as groping or attempted rape), then the much more serious crime of sexual assault likely has occurred. See FindLaw's Sex Crimes section to learn about related offenses.

• Lack of intent - Since the intent must be to around sexual desire, urinating behind a dumpster likely would not be considered "indecent."
• Insanity - Someone with a diagnosed mental illness or disorder may not be held accountable for certain acts (i.e. he/she lacks capacity).
• Intoxication - This is not a standard defense to charges, but intoxication may be a mitigating factor in some cases (thus reducing penalties)
• Age - Children are less likely to have had intent to arouse another individual by such an act of exposure than an adult.

In Texas, indecent exposure laws classify the crime as a "Class B" misdemeanor. This charge typically faces a penalty of not more than 180 days in a county jail and/or a fine of no more than $2,000. The sentence imposed will be at the discretion of the judge and will depend upon the circumstances of each defendant and the nature of the offense. For example, a defendant who has been convicted of the same charge in the past will likely face a harsher sentence than one who has not been convicted before.