Citizens Against Pornography later this month will sponsor a community forum on “‘Sexting’ — From Fun Time to Jail Time.”

The forum will address whether “sexting,” the sending of sexually graphic imagery, usually nudity, by cell phones, is harmless fun or a criminal act.

“Minors across the country caught sending nude photos of friends or even themselves are facing serious legal charges, including child pornography,” Carl Hendrickson, Citizens Against Pornography chairman, stated in a news release.

“Most young people and their parents are unaware of the grave and lasting consequences of a child pornography conviction,” he continued. “Also, many youngsters’ cell phones belong to parents. Are the parents now liable for aiding and abetting child pornography?”

The forum will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at Mary, Mother of the Church, 5901 Kerth Road. It will offer a frank and open dialogue about young people and “sexting” and how law enforcement, legal and political communities are dealing with this fad, the release stated.

Community experts will be on hand to present information and answer questions, including Glendale Police Lt. Joe Laramie, director of the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Dr. John Splinter, psychologist and St. Louis director of the National Coalition for the Protection of Children and Families.

Sen. Jim Lembke of Lemay will share his concerns about sexting not only as a legislator, but also as a father of two teenage children.

Cristiana Zipay, a Lutheran High School South senior, will present her award-winning essay on the subject of “sexting.”

Hendrickson invites community members, including teachers, parents and grandparents, to attend the forum. He also en-courages teens and preteens to attend with their parents.

For more information, call Hendrickson at (314) 892-6451 or visit the CAP Web site at

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