Citing possible violations of child pornography and exploitation laws, the Parents Television Council (PTC) wants the federal government to investigate the new MTV teen drama ‘Skins,’ TVGuide.com is reporting. The PTC called for the investigation in a letter tot he Department of Justice and U.S. Senate and House Judiciary Committees, primarily citing the 42 drug and alcohol references in the series’ January 17 premiere.

In the letter, PTC President Tim winter charged that Viacom, the company that produces the series, “knowingly produced material that may well be in violation of (several child pornography laws).” He pointed to the fact that “The episode included all manner of foul language, illegal drug use, illegal activity as well as thoroughly pervasive sexual content.”

The letter comes after The New York Times reported that Viacom executives met and discussed whether ‘Skins’ violated pornography laws. While MTV didn’t confirm the meeting, network executives issued a statement, insisting that they review all of the ir shows before they air them. “We…work with all of our producers on an ongoing basis to ensure our shows comply with laws and community standards,” the statement also said.

Written by: Karen Benardello

MTV Skins