Felony soliciting prostitution is a serious offense in Oklahoma. Soliciting prostitution charges are severe on their own, and felony charges elevate the consequences significantly, leading to harsher penalties and long-term repercussions. Here’s what you need to know about the crime of soliciting prostitution, when it is classified as a felony, and the penalties associated with a conviction.
Understanding Soliciting Prostitution in Oklahoma
Soliciting prostitution involves offering or agreeing to exchange money or other valuable items for sexual acts. Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 21, Section 1029, soliciting is generally a misdemeanor offense. However, aggravating factors such as coercion, violence, or solicitation of individuals with disabilities may lead to felony charges.
Most commonly, felony charges result from a second or subsequent conviction for soliciting prostitution. The court views repeated offenses as a pattern of criminal behavior, warranting harsher penalties. If the solicitation involves a victim of human trafficking or someone being exploited, the charges may be elevated to a felony. Soliciting a minor for prostitution is also a felony, carrying severe penalties due to the involvement of a child.
What are the Potential Penalties?
A felony conviction for soliciting prostitution in Oklahoma carries significant penalties, including:
Potential Incarceration
- A prison sentence of up to 5 years for repeat offenses or cases involving aggravating factors Some or all of the sentence may be deferred or suspended depending on the facts of your case.
- 10 years or more for cases involving minors or human trafficking victims. Additionally, you may have to register as a sex offender. Any aspect of the charge that involves minors will enhance the penalty and could land you in prison
Fines and Costs
- Substantial fines, often ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the offense. Additionally, the courts will pile on other costs like district attorney supervisor fees and other miscellaneous charges
Probation and Community Service
- Courts may impose probation or require community service hours as part of the sentence.
Mandatory Counseling
- Participation in counseling or education programs related to sexual misconduct may be required.
While these are some potential outcomes, the exact consequences will be determined based on the specific details of your case. Beyond the legal penalties, a conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, including employment difficulties, damage to your reputation, and the loss of civil rights, such as the ability to own firearms.
What Are Possible Defenses?
If you face felony charges for soliciting prostitution, it’s critical to seek legal representation immediately. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove all elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A lack of evidence can result in dismissal.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement officers induced you to commit the crime, your attorney might argue entrapment.
- Misidentification: You may be able to argue false accusations if there is insufficient or unclear evidence identifying you as the offender.
A criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and develop a strong defense strategy to help reach the best possible outcome for your case.
Tulsa Prostitution Defense Attorneys
Felony soliciting prostitution charges in Oklahoma carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and long-term consequences. Understanding the seriousness of these charges and taking immediate action to defend your rights is essential.
If you or someone you know is facing felony soliciting prostitution charges, our team here at Tulsa County Lawyers Group is here to help. Contact us today by calling (918) 379-4864 or reach us online for a consultation.
