Arizona law defines prostitution as engaging in or agreeing or offering to engage in sexual conduct under a fee arrangement with any person for money or any other valuable consideration. Those convicted of prostitution or solicitation of a prostitute face some of the toughest penalties in the U.S.
Prostitution is a class one misdemeanor and carries with it the following mandatory minimum jail sentences:
- First offense – 15 days
- Second offense – 30 days
- Third offense – 60 days
- Fourth offense – 180 days
In the case of solicitation, a person can be charged with a felony after their 4th offense and may have to register as a sex offender. Being caught, arrested and convicted of solicitation of a prostitute can have a major impact on a person’s life, affecting their job, family and future. It’s extremely important to contact an attorney when facing any charges related to prostitution.
There are a few common defenses that are fairly successful when it comes to fighting Arizona prostitution penalties. Most criminal attorneys will first look at an entrapment defense first. Very often, an undercover law enforcement agent will pose as either a prostitute or a “john” looking to solicit. Whenever this is the situation, it’s important to have an attorney review the facts of the case very closely. The charges may be invalid if any type of entrapment coercions were used at the time of the incident.
Other mistakes made at the time of the arrest can also cause the charges to be dropped. These mistakes might include the arresting officer forgetting to state Miranda rights, lack of probably cause or an illegal arrest.
Charlie Naegle has successfully defended clients facing charges related to prostitution. His experience handling these cases makes him a powerful ally to have in your corner if you find yourself facing prostitution or solicitation charges.