With the rise of technology, new temptations have risen and online solicitation is notorious as ever. The internet has made it easier for people to connect for the exchange of sexual acts. There are many types of scenarios that would constitute this crime, and we will go over them shortly. If you have been arrested for online solicitation, you don’t have to face it alone. ABC Bail Bonds can help you get out of jail as quickly as possible. From there, we will be by your side until your last court date.
What Is Online Solicitation?
Any communication, language, material, photography, or video that describes or relates to illegal sexual conduct is considered online solicitation. This is a broad definintion that encompossas many types of solicitation. One of the most common charges is online solicitation of a minor. This includes any discussions or requests in doing sexcual acts of any shape or form with someone that is 17 years or younger. All that needs to be present is the intent to commit a sexual act with a minor.
Types of Online Solicitation
You can face both state and federal charges for this crime. Here is a list of online solicitation:
- Online stalking and harassment
- Downloading illegal/child pornography
- Online solicitation of a minor
- Participating in online prostituiton or other sex crimes
- Illegal internet downloads and illegal file sharing
- Using internet for sending explicit material to minors
Entrapment by Authorities
Due to the increasing numbers of online solicitations, undercover officers have been entrapping offenders. Authorities charge many offenders even when they don’t contact actual minors or commit acts.They fall for undercover police sting operations. However, authorities need to follow certain rules in these operations. Some of them include:
- Enforcement officer can not initiate sexual conversation
- Officer can not propose any sexual activity
- Enforcement officer can not improperly induce a suspect to commit a crime
If you believe the authorities broke any of these three rules, your defense attorney can build a stronger case.
Penalties
The punishments range depending on the type of solicitation that is committed. Cyberstalking can range from Class B misdemeanor to third degree felony. You can spend 6 months in jail or up to 10 years. Fines can range from $2,000 to $10,000.
If you are guilty of a first offense for soliciting prostution, it is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. You can serve up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000. If you have committed this offense in the past, it’s a Class A misdemeanor. Possible penalties are up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Online solicitation of a minor is both a state and federal crime. You can spend a minimum of 10 years in prison or up to a lifetime sentence. Fines range from $2,000 to $25,000.
ABC Bail Bonds
If you have been arrested for online solicitation, get in touch with ABC Bail Bonds today. We will grant you a speedy release for only 10% of the bail amount. Our bondsmen will be with you through every step of the bail process to answer any questions or concerns. Take advantage of our speedy release to hire an attorney. Let us help you get your life back on track with an affordable bail bond.
