Accused Of Internet Crimes? Call Our Des Moines Attorneys Today.

Last updated on August 24, 2026

With the massive increase in availability of technology in recent years, it comes as no surprise that criminal charges involving technology have also increased. Internet crimes, in particular, have been prosecuted more in recent years than ever before. With the evidentiary and technological challenges involved with the internet and other computer-based crimes, internet crime defense requires experience, skill and dedication.

At Spellman Law, P.C., we defend clients throughout Iowa against internet crime charges. We have been focusing exclusively on criminal defense matters for the better part of a decade. If you are facing internet crime charges, contact the firm for a free consultation.

Internet Crimes Are Often Federal Crimes

Because internet crimes usually involve the passage of information across state lines, these cases are often tried in federal court. The federal court system is not simply another version of the state criminal justice system; it has its own separate rules and procedures that require experience from a defense lawyer.

• Internet sex crimes: Since the Internet affords people the opportunity to obtain illicit sexual material more confidentially and with less effort, charges of possession of child pornography and other illegal pornographic materials involve the Internet with increasing frequency. Other sex crime charges like solicitation of a minor, sexual harassment and stalking often involve the internet, as well.
• White collar internet crimes: Computer and internet technology are the most common way to commit fraud, embezzlement, identity theft and many more in a wide range of white collar crimes.
• Drug trafficking: It is becoming increasingly popular for delivery of a controlled substance, drug trafficking, interstate drug crimes and other felony drug crimes to initiate over the internet.

Does Iowa Have A Computer Crimes Statute?

Iowa has specific statutes that address computer-related offenses under Iowa Code 714, 716.6B and 702.14. These laws cover a wide range of illegal activities, and the severity of the charges depends on the nature of the offense, such as:

• Unauthorized computer access: Accessing a computer, computer system or computer network that contains confidential records or operational data without permission is an aggravated misdemeanor. If you copy, alter or destroy data, the charge becomes a serious misdemeanor.
• Theft of data or services: Iowa law classifies data or service theft based on the value of what was taken. Theft valued over $10,000 is a Class C felony, while theft valued between $1,000 and $10,000 is a Class D felony. Smaller amounts still carry real consequences – an aggravated misdemeanor covers theft between $500 and $1,000, a serious misdemeanor applies to amounts between $200 and $500 and anything under $200 is a simple misdemeanor.
• Simple computer access: Accessing a computer without authorization is still a simple misdemeanor under Iowa law, even if you did not steal or tamper with any data.

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, the consequences can affect your reputation and your future. That is why it is so important to act quickly and get the right legal help on your side.

We Are Here To Protect Your Legal Rights And Reputation

From our office in West Des Moines, we offer free initial consultations and flexible scheduling so you can talk with a lawyer in a free, confidential setting to discuss your case. Call us today at 515-222-4330 to get started on your defense. We are available 24/7.