There are right ways and wrong ways to handle the end of a romantic relationship. Generally speaking, legal issues arising from the end of the relationship should be handled through the legal system, while the emotional fallout may be better dealt with outside of the public eye.

As one North Carolina woman found out recently, not dealing with former love interests in a mature manner can in some cases lead to getting accused of violating the criminal law of this state. North Carolina authorities are charging the woman, who is only 19, with “disclosure of private images,” which is a felony.

Allegedly, the woman posted compromising photographs of the alleged victim, who was the woman’s ex-boyfriend, on a social media website. The man reported the incident after discovering the photos online. It is interesting to note, however, that the woman apparently reported the man for behavior against her that police chose to charge as a criminal assault.

The crime with which the woman has been charged can rightly be called a statute intended to prohibit so-called “revenge porn.” Revenge porn is a rather common occurrence among those who are in the process of a breakup, and usually it is ultimately the result of hurt feelings, anger and the other strong emotions that accompany the end of a relationship. People who are accused of this crime often are good citizens who let their emotions get the best of them.

Nevertheless, because the penalties are so serious, someone who is accused of breaking this law should not ever take the charge lightly. Instead, they would be well advised to go over their legal options and understand their rights.

Source: Statesville Record & Landmark, “North Carolina woman arrested for posting nude photos online,” March 20, 2018.