"We read the criminal code, the definition of CEM," Det Sen-Constable Clinton Stewart told the court.
Speaking outside court, Cairns police Child Protection and Investigation Unit boss Sen-Sgt Mick Gooiker said they only planned to use these type of charges for "more serious matters" but parents and children needed to realise the potential dire consequences of improper mobile phone use.
"We're asking parents to talk to kids about the ramifications of doing things like this," he said. "And obviously how these types of videos are posted in the public domain are incredibly traumatic to the victim. We certainly have the scope to use these charges again."