Unpacking Solicitation of a Prostitute Charges
The offense of solicitation of a prostitute entails the act of offering, agreeing to, or participating in sexual activities in exchange for monetary compensation or other forms of consideration. This behavior is strictly prohibited by Minnesota state law and can have significant legal and societal ramifications.
Misdemeanor Charges and Associated Consequences
Individuals who face misdemeanor charges for solicitation in Minnesota may encounter a range of penalties:
- Fines: Conviction may lead to fines reaching up to $1,000.
- Imprisonment: The consequences might involve a jail term of up to 90 days in a county correctional facility.
It is vital to recognize that these penalties can fluctuate based on case-specific factors and prior criminal history.
Felony Charges Involving Minors
In cases where minors are involved, solicitation charges can escalate to felonies, resulting in more severe penalties:
- Monetary Penalties: Felony charges can result in fines of up to $10,000 or potentially more.
- Incarceration: Conviction may lead to several years of imprisonment in a state correctional institution.
Viable Defenses Against Solicitation Charges
A range of defenses can be pursued when confronting solicitation charges, contingent upon the unique circumstances:
- Absence of Intent: If it can be proven that there was no genuine intention to engage in solicitation, the charges could be challenged. This may involve demonstrating that conversations or actions were misconstrued or taken out of context.
- Entrapment: Entrapment might be used as a defense if law enforcement coerced or induced the individual to commit the offense. This pertains to situations where the individual wouldn’t have engaged in the activity without undue pressure from law enforcement.
- Voluntary Consent: Demonstrating that both parties acted consensually and voluntarily, free from any form of coercion or duress, could undermine the solicitation charges.
- Unlawful Search and Seizure: If evidence was obtained through an illegal search or seizure, it could be considered inadmissible in court, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case.
Contact Kevin DeVore for a Free Case Evaluation
If you find yourself facing solicitation charges in Minnesota, it’s crucial to seek expert legal guidance promptly. Kevin DeVore, a seasoned criminal defense attorney, offers a free case evaluation to help you understand your legal options and build a robust defense strategy. Contact Kevin DeVore today to safeguard your rights and receive tailored advice for your specific situation.
Posted 13th September 2023 by DeVore Law Office