Prostitution and solicitation are penalized quite harshly here in Minnesota, but those penalties become even more severe if you’re caught engaging in a paid sexual act with a minor. The younger the provider is, the harsher the penalties are in Minnesota. Today, we take a closer look at the penalties for engaging in prostitution with a minor.
Prostitution With A Minor In Minnesota
As we noted above, the charges and penalties begin to get more severe as the age of the provider decreases. Here’s how Minnesota penalizes the crime of solicitation of a minor.
Solicitation of a minor who is knowingly under the age of 18 but above the age of 16 for sexual contact, or agreeing to hire someone who you reasonably believe to be under the age of 18 but over the age of 16 for sexual contact, can be punished by up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000, or both.
Solicitation of a minor who is knowingly under the age of 16 but above the age of 13 for sexual contact, or agreeing to hire someone who you reasonably believe to be under the age of 16 but over the age of 13 for sexual contact, can be punished by up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $20,000, or both.
Solicitation of a minor who is knowingly under the age of 13 for sexual contact, or agreeing to hire someone who you reasonably believe to be under the age of 13 for sexual contact, can be punished by up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $40,000, or both.
Solicitation Of A Minor Defenses
The best way to avoid a solicitation of a minor charge is to stay far away from situations that could get out of hand. Police like to use the internet to aid in prostitution stings, and they often pose as girls as young as 12 to see who will take the bait. Even if they “seemed older then were,” you can be hit with major charges and penalties if you are caught be police, so avoid these situations altogether.
If you need legal help after a prostitution sting, or you want help in escaping the world of sex trafficking or prostitution, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We have many contacts in the counseling services industry who can help you get back on your feet without any judgment. If you need help, give Appelman Law Firm a call today at (952) 224-2277.
