When law enforcement arrives at your home with a warrant related to unlawful pornographic images, the situation is serious. We know how overwhelming and frightening this can feel, especially if you don’t understand what the officers are allowed to do or what your rights are under Illinois law. The decisions you make in those first few moments matter. Your words, your actions, and whether or not you try to interfere with the search can all affect the outcome of your case. That’s why we always tell people to stay calm, say as little as possible, and call a qualified criminal defense lawyer right away.
In Illinois, the possession, distribution, or creation of child pornography is a felony offense under 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1. Law enforcement typically builds these cases through digital evidence—images or videos found on phones, computers, hard drives, or online storage accounts. If officers have a warrant, that means a judge has already found probable cause to search your property for illegal materials. You are not required to answer questions, and we strongly advise that you don’t, no matter how cooperative the officers may seem.
What You Should Do When Officers Arrive With A Warrant
When police arrive at your door with a warrant:
- Do not block them from entering. That can lead to obstruction charges.
- Do not answer questions. You have the right to remain silent under both the U.S. Constitution and the Illinois Constitution.
- Do not try to delete or destroy anything. That can lead to separate charges for tampering with evidence.
- Politely ask to see the warrant. Officers must show it to you if asked.
- Call a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Search warrants related to unlawful pornographic images often allow officers to seize electronics, including computers, phones, USB drives, tablets, and even internet routers. If items are taken, you have a right to receive a copy of the search warrant and a written inventory of what was seized.
Legal Consequences Under Illinois Law
Under Illinois law, possession of even a single unlawful image involving a minor is classified as a Class X felony. This charge carries a mandatory prison sentence of 6 to 30 years under 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1(a)(6). If there are multiple files, you can be charged for each one separately, which may result in consecutive sentences. Conviction also requires mandatory registration as a sex offender under the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act, 730 ILCS 150/1.
We’ve seen how prosecutors approach these cases aggressively. That’s why having legal representation from the start is critical. We can review the search warrant, examine how the evidence was obtained, and challenge any unlawful procedures.
Illinois Warrant Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If Officers Show Up With A Warrant?
Remain calm, do not resist, and do not speak to the officers about the case. Ask to see the warrant and contact a defense lawyer immediately.
Can I Refuse To Let The Officers In?
If they have a valid search warrant, you cannot legally prevent them from entering. Doing so may result in additional charges, such as obstruction of justice.
Do I Have To Answer Questions If The Police Ask?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you later, even if you are trying to explain or deny the accusations.
Can Police Take My Electronics If They Have A Warrant?
Yes. Most warrants in these cases specifically authorize the seizure of electronic devices, including computers, phones, hard drives, and other storage equipment.
Will I Get My Electronics Back?
That depends on the outcome of the investigation and the case. In many cases, devices are kept as evidence and may not be returned until the matter is resolved in court.
What Charges Can I Face In Illinois For Unlawful Pornographic Images?
Possession, distribution, or production of child pornography can lead to Class X felony charges under 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1. Each image can be charged separately.
What Is The Punishment For A Class X Felony In Illinois?
A Class X felony carries a mandatory prison term of 6 to 30 years and no possibility of probation. If convicted, you may also have to register as a sex offender.
Can I Be Charged Even If I Didn’t Know The Files Were There?
Possibly. Prosecutors may argue that you had knowledge or control over the content. An experienced defense attorney can help challenge the evidence and intent.
What If Someone Else Used My Computer Or Device?
That can be a valid defense. If you did not control or access the content, or if someone else placed it there, we can work to prove that during the investigation.
Can I Be Arrested On The Spot When Police Arrive With A Warrant?
Yes, if the warrant includes an arrest authorization or if officers discover evidence during the search that leads them to believe an immediate arrest is necessary.
Call A Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Trust
If police have shown up with a warrant or you’ve been contacted about unlawful pornographic images, the time to protect yourself is now. At Edward Johnson & Associates, we take these cases seriously and fight hard to defend your rights under Illinois law. Contact our Chicago sex crime defense attorney at Edward Johnson & Associates P.C. to receive a free consultation by calling 708-762-8666. Our offices are located in Chicago, Illinois, and we proudly serve clients throughout the entire Chicagoland metro area.