Prostitution and Solicitation In Minneapolis
There are five different prostitution charges under the Minnesota law, all of which involve engaging or participating in sexual activity in exchange for money. Prostitution charges include solicitation (asking someone to exchange money for sexual acts), inducement, promotion of prostitution, loitering with intent to prostitute and prostitution committed in school or park zones.
Solicitation and Promotion
You may be charged under the prostitution laws of Minnesota in the following instances:
- Engage in any sexual activity for money
- Solicits or induce an individual to practice prostitution. If the individual is under the age of 18, you are most likely facing even harsher punishment
- Promotes the prostitution of an individual (pimping)
- Receives profit that it is derived from the prostitution, or the promotion of the prostitution, of an individual of any age.
School Zone or Park Zone
Those who commit an act of prostitution of solicitation in a school or park zone may face even more severe punishments including larger fines and longer jail sentences.
Prostitution Loitering Charges
Anyone who is in a public place and looks as if she is planning on committing an act of prostitution can also be guilty under the Minnesota laws. Often prostitutes will wear certain clothes and have certain objects on them, including sex toys, a client list, a cell phone, lubricants, condoms, and/or a large amount of cash. The problem with prostitution loitering charges is that the basis of arrest is usually made on these factors. However, just because you have condoms in your purse, own a cell phone, possess a vibrator and is wearing a scandalous outfit does not necessary mean you are guilty of prostitution loitering. If you are accused on this offense, it is critical you seek legal representation right away.
Entrapment
In an effort to put an end to all prostitution and solicitation, many female police officers will go under cover as prostitutes in an attempt to lure unknowing offenders. This can be a defense for the defendant depending on what sort of verbal and non-verbal communication was exchanged.
Prostitution is usually considered a gross misdemeanor or a misdemeanor offense that comes with a fine of up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail. The penalty for a gross misdemeanor includes a fine of up to $3,000 and one year in jail. You may also face community service and rehabilitation treatment depending on your case.
Minnesota Criminal Lawyer & Defense Attorney
If you or someone you love is currently struggling with prostitution, solicitation, pandering, inducement or prostitution loitering arrest, then it is important you speak to a qualified attorney about your legal options. Keyser Criminal Defense will assess your case, determine your options and represent you in an expungement hearing. Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Christopher W. Keyser at (612) 338-5007 for a free, confidential and pressure-free case evaluation.
Statewide Representation and Legal Advice
Keyser Criminal Defense represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.
