Possession of Child Pornography

Possession or Promotion of Child Pornography under Texas Penal Code § 43.26 is a third-degree felony (2–10 years, $10,000 fine) for possessing visual material depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct. Possession of 10 or more items, or a prior conviction, elevates the charge to a second-degree felony (2–20 years). Conviction requires lifetime sex offender registration. Federal charges often accompany state charges and carry their own severe mandatory minimums.