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Sex Offenses Information Center

Victimless Sex Offenses

A victimless crime, sometimes termed a consensual crime, a crime without victims or a complainantless crime is a "crime that is considered to have no direct victim, usually because only consenting adults are involved." Black's Law Dictionary. State laws regarding victimless sex offenses vary greatly, but state statutes typically address victimless sex offenses such as prostitution, pandering, solicitation, indecent exposure and illegal possession of pornography. The penalties for victimless sex offenses, such as solicitation of a minor or child pornography, are severe; often involving felony convictions, jail or prison time, sexual offender treatment programs and lifetime registration as a sexual offender. For other offenses such as indecent exposure, the penalties are generally less severe; they range from fines and community service to felony charges and incarceration. If you have been arrested for a victimless sex offense, contact a law firm immediately to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney who can clearly explain your rights and options.

Prostitution, Pandering, Solicitation

Prostitution, solicitation, pandering and pimping are either felonies or misdemeanors in most states. Prostitution is defined as a person receiving payment for sexual intercourse or other sexual acts. Pimping is defined as soliciting acts of prostitution or pandering on behalf of another. Although frequently a misdemeanor, it is typically a crime to hire a prostitute to perform sexual acts for payment.

A prostitution charge may be the result of a law enforcement sting operation, using police officer decoys to pose as prostitutes. In this instance, potential customers agreed to a price for a sexual act and are arrested. Some men caught in this situation have no prior record, want to keep the matter private and do not want to go to trial to avoid potentially adverse effects on their marriage, family and employment. If you have been caught in a prostitution sting operation, contact our firm to schedule a consultation with a lawyer to evaluate your interaction with undercover officers to determine your defense.

Indecent Exposure and Lewd Acts

Lewd acts, lascivious conduct and indecent exposure may be charged as a misdemeanor in most states. These crimes may also involve pornography, engaging in sexual acts in a public place or exposing the genitals in a public place.

Indecent exposure may be charged as a felony, which may require long-term registration as a sex offender or psychological treatment in some states. In these cases, a defense attorney, if contacted promptly, can interview all prosecution witnesses and other witnesses that may help in your defense. If your case cannot be defended, your lawyer may try to negotiate for psychological treatment instead of jail time.

Conclusion

Even victimless sex offenses carry the possibility of serious penalties and life-changing requirements, such as psychological treatment or registration requirements. If you are facing any of these sex crimes, contact our firm to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.

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DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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