If you’ve been charged with a prostitution-related offense, you know that it can have life-changing effects.
The general definition of prostitution in Minnesota, under Minn. Stat. § 609.324, is intentionally hiring, offering, or agreeing to hire an individual to engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact. Every prostitution charge is serious, from a misdemeanor to a felony. However, the level of charge you face will depend on a variety of factors, including the age of the alleged victims, whether the person was acting as a patron, whether the person has prior prostitution convictions, and whether there was an offer or agreement made in a public place.
Misdemeanor charges are reserved for those acting as prostitutes. It is a misdemeanor offense in Minnesota to be hired, offer to be hired, or agree to be hired to engage in sexual penetration or contract with another person. Repeat violators or those who engage in prostitution in public places can have their charges enhanced to gross misdemeanors.
Those who engage in prostitution as patrons are typically charged with gross misdemeanors. However, prior prostitution convictions within ten years can enhance the charge to a felony.
If the alleged victim is under the age of 18, you are likely to be charged with a felony. Consequences can sometimes include prison sentences.
There can be ramifications beyond a criminal conviction, too. If you used a motor vehicle in your prostitution case, it will be notated on your driving record. Convictions can also require you to register on a sex offender registry.
If you’ve been charged with prostitution, or caught by a sting operation, you will need an experienced criminal defense lawyer at your side. At Brandt Kettwick Defense, we have decades of experience in defending prostitution cases.