Prostitution, Pimping and Soliciting
The crimes of prostitution, pimping, and solicitation are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272 Section 53A. In order for an individual to be convicted of one of these crimes, the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- An individual engaged, agreed to engage, or offered to engage in sexual conduct with another person in return for a fee OR
- An individual paid, agreed to pay, or offered to pay another person to engage in sexual conduct or agreed to engage in sexual conduct with another natural person
It is important to note that sexual conduct does not have to occur for an individual to be convicted of one of these crimes.
PunishmentAn individual who commits the crime of prostitution, pimping or soliciting can be punished by up to 1 year in the house of correction and/or a fine of up to $500.00.
The punishment is increased if the crime involves sexual conduct with a child under the age of 14. In this circumstance, the individual can be punished by up to 10 years imprisonment in the state prison or up to 2.5 years in the house of correction.
If you or a loved one has been charged with prostitution, pimping and/or soliciting or are being investigated for that crime, call Altman & Altman for a free, confidential consultation. Our defense attorneys are available to provide immediate counsel.