Iowa criminal charge
Rental or sale of hard-core pornography in Iowa
Rental or sale of hard-core pornography is a Aggravated Misdemeanor under Iowa criminal law, defined by Iowa Code § 728.4. As a Aggravated Misdemeanor, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Iowa sets for that offense class. Iowa classifies offenses as class “A” through class “D” felonies and as aggravated, serious, or simple misdemeanors. Felony prison terms are indeterminate maximums — the statutes set only the ceiling, and release timing is determined by the board of parole.
Defined by Iowa Code § 728.4.
What is the penalty for rental or sale of hard-core pornography in Iowa?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 2 years (a sentence of more than one year is an indeterminate term (§903.1(2))) | discretionary | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
| Fine | $855 to $8,540 (fine may not be suspended by the court (§903.1(1)); §911 surcharges added on top) | mandatory | Iowa Code § 903.1 |
Applies to current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074).
Common questions about rental or sale of hard-core pornography in Iowa
Is rental or sale of hard-core pornography a felony or a misdemeanor in Iowa?
Rental or sale of hard-core pornography is a Aggravated Misdemeanor in Iowa under Iowa Code § 728.4.
What are the penalties for rental or sale of hard-core pornography in Iowa?
As a Aggravated Misdemeanor, rental or sale of hard-core pornography carries up to 2 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of $855 to $8,540 under Iowa Code § 903.1 (current (2026 Iowa Code; fine levels per 2020 Acts ch 1074)).
Which Iowa statute covers rental or sale of hard-core pornography?
Rental or sale of hard-core pornography is governed by Iowa Code § 728.4 (Rental or sale of hard-core pornography).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.