Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 27, 2018
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In North Carolina, indecent exposure can happen when a person purposefully shows their private parts in a public place in front of one or more other people. "Private parts" are defined by the statute. Additionally, anyone caught exposing their genitals to a minor for sexual gratification will face even harsher penalties. Anyone caught exposing their genitals to a minor for sexual gratification will face even harsher penalties.
What is a public place? Many cases are very fact-intensive and will depend on your specific situation. North Carolina courts have found that a car in a public parking lot is a public place and a creek embankment adjacent to a backyard can also be considered "public"; they have defined a public place as any place "viewable from any location open to the view of the public at large." This means that an otherwise private residence can be considered "public" under the law if it is easy for the public to see it.
The following table highlights the main provisions of the North Carolina's indecent exposure laws.
See Sexual Assault, Sex Crimes, Sex Offenders and Sex Offenses for more information.
| Code Section | North Carolina General Statutes §14-190.9 |
| What is Prohibited | Intentionally exposing your "private parts" in a public place in front of another person. Aggravated Indecent Exposure: Doing the same thing, but in front of a child under 16 years old and for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification. |
| Definition of "Private Parts" |
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| Penalties | Indecent Exposure: Class 2 misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000, probation, community service. Aggravated Indecent Exposure: Class H felony, (North Carolina has a sentencing grid that determines the sentence range for any felony offenses), fines, community service, and possible lifetime sex offender registration. |
| Exceptions to the Law |
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| Aiding and Abetting | Anyone who aids another person in indecent exposure or motivates another person to expose his or herself in public can also be charged with this act. |
In addition to a state wide ban on public indecency, there are also local ordinances that citizens must abide by. Check your local city, township, or campus rules for more information.
If you're convicted under North Carolina's indecent exposure laws, the result could be jail time and fines, in addition to damage to your name and reputation. With so much on the line, you should act in your best interests and contact a qualified criminal defense attorney in North Carolina to discuss your case and learn about your options moving forward.
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