To “solicit” something is to ask or petition for something. Some definitions even describe it as to “urgently ask.” What then does it mean when we speak of online solicitation? Online solicitation can be charged as a sex crime, particularly when it involves someone under the age of 18. Solicitation can also refer to prostitution. While solicitation can carry a number of different connotations, in reference to online solicitation it is typically charged as a sex crime against a minor. In the state of Nevada, soliciting a minor to engage in an “infamous crime against nature” is prohibited by the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) § 201.195.
Soliciting a minor via a chat room or other online medium for the purpose of sexual gratification can also be charged as lewdness with a child under 14. Chat rooms and the like are infamous for sex crime allegations. If you were accused of soliciting sex, sexual favors, sexual pictures, or the like from a minor over the internet then you should take immediate action and get in touch with a Las Vegas criminal defense attorney at Okabe & Haushalter today. This firm is nationally recognized for its strong representation in these types of cases. No matter how complex or difficult your case might seem, trust our firm to provide you with the legal counsel you need.
According to Nevada state law, it is a crime to incite, entice, or solicit a minor to engage in an act defined as an “infamous crime against nature.” Per this section of the law, penalties will depend on whether or not the minor actually engaged in such acts as a result of the solicitation.
For example, should the minor engage in such acts:
In situations where the minor did not engage in such acts:
Below, is what the law has to say about committing lewdness with a child:
If you have been alleged of this or a related sex crime against a minor, one possible affirmative defense is that the defendant did not know that the victim was underage. This can be extremely common when it comes to online sex crimes, as it is easier for a person to conceal their age. Another possible defense against this type of criminal allegation is that the defendant did not commit the act of solicitation of a minor or indecency with a minor.
If you’ve been alleged of a serious offense such as this, do not hesitate to get in touch with our firm. Okabe & Haushalter is known for our skilled representation of these cases, and we can fight to see that you don’t face severe penalties such as sex offender registration and imprisonment. To obtain a free evaluation of your case, contact a Las Vegas sex crime attorney at the firm.
