Can I Get in Legal Trouble if Someone Caught Me Masturbating?
Can I get in legal trouble if someone caught me masturbating. I'm under 18
This could be considered a crime of the 4th degree if the person observing is less than 13 years of age and you are at least 4 years older than the person observing OR if the person observing has a mental disease or defect. It could be a disorderly person’s offense if observed by people older than 13 years of age who are nonconsenting.
Any legal issues would also be tied to the intent of the person masturbating. If someone accidentally walked into the bathroom or bedroom of someone masturbating in the privacy of their own home that is a different situation than someone masturbating in public or in a situation where it would be likely for someone else to catch them.
Finally, there could be a legal issue if the person masturbating is caught with illegal pornographic material, such as pornographic material of minors.
If you have any further questions or concerns, FX recommends checking in with a trusted adult, such as a parent/guardian or your doctor.
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. A Planned Parenthood health center is a good option if you have concerns about cost or confidentiality issues. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.
