With the rise of the internet, many things about society have changed. People are always glued to their mobile phones. The Internet has a lot of good things, but on the other side, there are also dark things that happen on the Internet. Nowadays illicit acts like prostitution are happening using the internet. It is generally done through websites, social media, and other encrypted chat services. Law enforcement is paying a lot of attention to online prostitution. The severity of such cases depends on certain things. If you are aware of those things, then you can better handle the legal process and build a strong case for yourself.
A prostitution charge can ruin one’s reputation. In such cases it is important to gather evidence against suspects. You can prove your innocence only if you collect strong evidence regarding the case. Hiring a lawyer can be very helpful, as they know the law better than you do. Here are the factors that determine the severity of your charge.
Understanding Online Prostitution Charges
Prostitution generally means the exchange of sexual service for money. Prostitution is against the law in many U.S. states. Online prostitution involves soliciting or engaging in these activities through digital platforms. Charges could come from posting or responding to online ads or helping people make purchases through websites. Punishments can be as light as a misdemeanor or as serious as a felony, depending on the situation. The severity of the case depends on things like the type of crime, the people involved, the jurisdiction, and the evidence presented.
Types of Offense
The severity of the charges can be determined by specific actions you’re accused of. Online prostitution cases typically involve
Solicitation: Trying to set up sexual services for money is against the law. For this you can be charged with a misdemeanor. But if you keep repeating the offense, the penalties can get worse.
Engaging in Prostitution: One can be accused of involvement in sexual services. The penalty charges may depend on whether you started or accepted an offer.
Promoting Prostitution: Handling a website or app that encourages prostitution can lead to felony charges.
Presence of Minor
One of the most important factors that determines the severity of online prostitution charges is whether minors were involved. If the case includes a minor, then the charges can be heavy. It might also move your case from state to federal jurisdiction. Important factors include
Age: Engaging in prostitution with a minor can lead to child sex trafficking or sexual exploitation. It might get you a minimum sentence of 10-15 years under federal law, like the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA).
Knowledge Of The Age: Prosecutors might argue that you knew or should have known the person’s age. Especially if you talked to them online.
Cases involving minors generally get huge penalties, and long jail sentences.
Criminal History
Your previous criminal history is also an important factor that affects the severity of your case.
- If you are a first-time offender, prosecutors may offer a plea deal or reduce your charges.
- If you have a repeated history of prostitution-related offenses, it can get you heavy penalties.
- Similarly, if you have committed offenses related to prostitution before, you might face severe charges.
Role of the Internet
The internet plays a vital role in such online cases. The use of websites, emails, and messages over the internet can be considered as important evidence in online prostitution cases. The internet allows offenders to connect with victims across the globe. This act can breach the Mann Act (18 U.S.C. § 2421–2423).
Penalties to Face
Penalties for online prostitution charges may vary widely but may include:
Misdemeanor Charges: Jail time of 6–12 months and a fine up to $1,000.
Felony Charges: Prison sentences of 2–7 years or more plus fines up to $15,000 or higher.
Collateral Consequences: Convictions may lead to sex offender registration and loss of employment.
Key Takeaways
- One can face severe consequences if found guilty of online prostitution.
- Several factors, like solicitation, engagement in prostitution, and sex trafficking, can determine the severity of the case.
- Charges like misdemeanor and even felony can be sentenced depending upon the case.
- If a minor is involved, it can increase the punishment and penalty.
- Finding a lawyer can help you prove your innocence in such cases.
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