In Massachusetts and in most states throughout the country, prostitution is against the law. Prostitution means engaging, agreeing to engage, or offering to engage in sexual activity with another person in exchange for money is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum jail term of one year and/or a fine of up to $500.
The following are other types of criminal offenses related to prostitution in Massachusetts:
Solicitation – This means paying or offering to pay a prostitute for sexual intercourse or contact. Solicitation is punishable by imprisonment for up to two-and-a-half years and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.
Pimping and pandering – These offenses mean knowingly procuring, enticing, or sending another person to engage in prostitution with another person. Additionally, living off or sharing the earnings of a prostitute can be charged with pimping/pandering. Procuring a prostitute carries a maximum prison term of two years and/or a fine of up to $500. Receiving a prostitute’s earnings punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or a maximum fine of $10,000. Owning or maintaining an establishment where prostitution occurs carries a maximum prison term of two years.
Inducing a minor into prostitution – This offense means knowingly aiding and assisting the induction of a minor to become a prostitute. Inducing a minor into prostitution is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and/or a maximum fine of $5,000, as well as registration as a sex offender.
If you have been charged with prostitution or any other prostitution-related offense, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you avoid serving harsh criminal penalties or get your entire case dismissed. With more than five decades of experience, including time spent as a state and federal prosecutor, Attorney Brad Bailey specializes in sex crime cases in Massachusetts, as well as New York and New Hampshire.
If you have been accused of a sex crime in Boston, call Brad Bailey Law at (617) 500-0252 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.