What element is NOT required to prove the possession of child pornography?

To establish the crime of possession of child pornography, the prosecution must typically demonstrate several key elements. Among these, the possession of the material, the depiction of a child who is under the age of 18, and knowledge of the pornographic nature of the material are critical components.

The requirement for financial transaction evidence is not necessary to prove possession. While financial transactions may be relevant in some contexts, such as determining intent or the scope of distribution, they do not play a role in merely establishing that someone possessed child pornography. The essence of the crime lies in the physical possession of the illegal material itself, the nature of that material, and the awareness of its content, not on financial dealings related to it.

Thus, financial transaction evidence does not serve as an element required to establish possession of child pornography, making it the correct choice in this context.