Watch CBS News

Gov. Quinn Signs 'Revenge Porn' Penalties Into Law

CHICAGO (AP) -- Distributing private images online without a person's consent will be a felony under a law signed by Gov. Pat Quinn.

The measure addresses so-called "revenge porn" in which a former romantic partner posts private pictures or videos in retaliation.

Democratic state Sen. Michael Hastings is a sponsor. He says it's "psychological abuse to the highest degree." His office says it's already illegal to put identifying or graphic information without consent on pornographic websites. But state law didn't previously address privately-shared images.

Quinn said Monday that cyberbullying can have lasting and devastating effects. He says the law cracks down on perpetrators and will prevent more people from becoming victims, most of whom are women.

Critics had expressed free speech concerns.

The law takes effect in 2015.

 

(© 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.