It’s probably one of the more embarrassing things to be arrested for, but at Gilmer & Giglio, we are experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the difficulties of your situation. If you were a “John” in the sting, then you were likely arrested for soliciting for prostitutes, in violation of Louisiana Revised Statute 14:83, which makes it illegal to “solicit, invite, induce, direct, our transport a person to any place with the intent of promoting prostitution.” Currently, the punishment for violation of this statute is a fine of up to $500 dollars and imprisonment up to six months. Louisiana Revised Statute 14:82.2 is a similar crime—purchase of commercial sexual activities, which makes it illegal to “knowingly give, agree to give, or offer to give anything of value to another in order to engage in sexual intercourse with a person who receives or agrees to receive anything of value as compensation for such activity.” The punishment for this crime is also up to six months imprisonment and a fine of up to $500.
Effective August 1, 2018, a few changes will be made to both laws. The first is an increase in the possible fine on both crimes from $500 to $750. Additionally, the legislature is adding an enhancement for “second or subsequent offense” soliciting for prostitutes. The penalty for this crime will be a fine ranging from $1500 to $2000, imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. It will also be a requirement that anyone convicted of either of these crimes (even on a first conviction) will have to participate in an educational program “to educate the offender about the harms, exploitation, and negative effects of prostitution.”
Depending on your job, there may also be employment consequences if you are arrested on these charges or something similar. If you need an attorney to help guide you through this process, call us at (318) 459-9111.
