FORMER PROSECUTOR REPRESENTING THOSE FACING
CHARGES IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
PROUDLY SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR OVER 28 YEARS.
Defense Attorney for Solicitation or Prostitution Crimes in Massachusetts
In recent years, state and federal task forces in Massachusetts have ramped up efforts to charge and prosecute not just those who sell sex but those who purchase it. In fact, law enforcement believes that the best way to curb prostitution in the state is to concentrate on shutting down the demand side of the business. The focus on targeting “John’s” and holding them accountable has
If you have been accused of soliciting another person to engage in an act of prostitution in Hampshire County, you need a sex crimes defense attorney to help you fight these charges.
The repercussions of a sex crimes conviction can be devastating. The criminal penalties you face are serious but you may also have to endure public shame and humiliation. Law enforcement may publish your name and picture in a press release or broadcast it on the local news stations. What’s worse, is you may have to register as a sex offender which will remain on your record for 20 years.
The Law Offices of Criminal Defense Attorney Thomas Kokownoski provides effective representation for individuals accused of participating in the sex trade. Sex crimes defense attorney Kokonowsi handles every case with the utmost discretion and never judges a client.Don’t let shame or embarrassment prevent you from seeking legal counsel. No matter what your circumstances may be, you are entitled to a strong defense.
Call the Law Offices of Criminal Defense Attorney Thomas Kokonowski today to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in Northampton (413.585.9200) and Amherst (413.549.0022).
With a background as a former prosecutor and a law practice devoted exclusively to criminal defense, Attorney Kokonowski gives you the best chance to get the charges against you dismissed or reduced to a lesser offense.
Solicitation for Prostitution Laws and Penalties
In Massachusetts, the act of offering money in exchange for a sexual act is illegal. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272 Section prohibits solicitation of a prostitute stating that it is a crime to pay, agree to pay, or offer to pay another person to engage in sexual conduct.
What are the Consequences of Soliciting Prostitution?
If you agree to pay another person to engage in sexual conduct, whether or not sex occurs, the penalties under are:
- Up to 2 1/2 years in Jail
- Fines of $1000-$5000
If your solicitation charge involves a minor, the penalties are much more severe, and may result in required registration as a sex offender.
Defending a Solicitation Charge
There are several defenses that can be used to fight a solicitation charge.
Lack of Intent
The prosecution needs to be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you had the specific intention of paying for sex. Mr. Kokonowski can challenge the evidence or lack thereof to show that you didn’t have the intention to follow through with engaging in a sex act. For example, if you responded to an ad for an escort or “call girl,” it can be argued that you wanted nothing more than a date or some company for an evening.
No Exchange of Money
The prosecution must be able to prove that you explicitly communicated a financial arrangement for sex with the prostitute. It’s possible that the conversation you had was ambiguous This can be difficult if it was an ambiguous conversation or if there was an agreement for sex without any discussion of payment. Perhaps you just made a comment in jest and were joking around or were indulging in a little flirtation.
Entrapment/Coercion:
Law enforcement is known to use a variety of undercover tactics to catch “Johns” in the act. As part of an undercover sting operation, they may post fictitious ads on websites like backpage,com or redbook in an effort to get the attention of those seeking prostitutes. When a solicitor responds to their ad, they will setup a meeting at a hotel or other location where an undercover officer pretending to be a prostitute will attempt to
In many cases, these meetings with undercover agents are not recorded and therefore it can be difficult to prove you made an offer for sex.
