Electronic Solicitation of Minors in MN

Did you know that Minnesota has a law making it illegal to solicit children to engage in sexual conduct? While Minnesota's age of consent is sixteen years old, there is a separate law which prohibits solicitation in all forms.

Minnesota Statute 609.352 states that it is illegal for anyone over 18 to solicit a "child" for sexual conduct. Further, it is illegal to solicit a child via the internet. A child is defined as someone under the age of sixteen.

This law is important for two reasons. First, it covers a specific component of sex crimes which is not always present. Second, the law carries stiff penalties for situations where the defendant's conduct may occur exclusively online.

"Sting operations" are very common under this statute. Defendants are frequently arrested and charged solely for speaking to an undercover officer and not an actual child. The penalties can be the same regardless.

One charge under this statute can carry a felony conviction with the possibility of jail time. This applies even to first time offenders.

Oftentimes Defendants have already committed a crime before they realize who they are talking to. Law enforcement will contact suspects and arrange for them to come to a hotel room. When they arrive, they will be arrested. The arrest will take place as soon as they knock on the door.

Suspects will frequently be asked to provide a statement immediately upon their arrest. Oftentimes this statement will focus on having the suspect confirm they sent any previous electronic messages to the undercover officer.

Wilson & Clas is experienced in defending against solicitation charges. The firm understands the techniques law enforcement use to convince unknowing defendants to commit these offenses. It is important to hire an attorney who knows the regular procedure followed by officers in undercover sting operations.

The attorneys of Wilson & Clas have been successful in all litigation phases regarding Minnesota’s solicitation statute. They have had cases dismissed, charges reduced, and sentences limited.

Wilson & Clas are available to take your call regarding your case anytime. Please call 612-760-4048 to discuss.