Colorado Springs Prostitution Defense Lawyers
Charged With a Crime Related to Prostitution in Colorado Springs?
In the state of Colorado, prostitution is generally defined as engaging in sexual activity with someone who is not a spouse for the exchange of money or other things of value. Sexual activity includes fellatio, cunnilingus, masturbation, and anal intercourse. Not only is prostitution a crime in Colorado, so too are soliciting for prostitution, pandering, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution.
Any allegation related to prostitution is serious and should be treated as such, regardless of the potential penalties. A simple mistake, misunderstanding, or lapse in judgment can lead to jail time, hefty fines, and damage to your reputation that can weigh you down for years to come. Do not let embarrassment keep you from fighting for your rights. If you or a loved one has been accused of a prostitution-related offense, call a Colorado Springs sex crime attorney at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., at (719) 475-2555.
Crimes Related to Prostitution
The Colorado legislature has defined and prohibited prostitution and related offenses/activities in very specific terms, so it is best to understand exactly what charges you may have to defend against.- Prostitution: Prostitution, pursuant to CRS § 18-7-201, occurs where a person offers or agrees to perform sexual acts with any person who is not his or her spouse in exchange for money or things of value. Anyone convicted of prostitution in Colorado will, in addition to any sentence imposed, have to take an HIV test and notify the court of the results.
- Soliciting for Prostitution: Anyone who solicits another person for prostitution, arranges for others to do so, or directs another person to a place for the purposes of prostitution can face this charge, as described by CRS § 18-7-202.
- Pandering: There are two forms of pandering defined by CRS § 18-7-203: felony pandering is the use of intimidation or menace to induce someone else to commit prostitution; while misdemeanor pandering refers to arranging a situation in which someone can practice prostitution, and is separate and distinguishable from pimping. See People v. Johnson, 578 P.2d 226 (Colo. 1978)
- Keeping a Place of Prostitution: In Colorado, pursuant to CRS § 18-7-204, it is illegal to own or control a location where someone knowingly allows others to practice prostitution, or once made aware of prostitution at the location, does not reasonably attempt to stop the practice.
- Patronizing a Prostitute: Anyone who engages in sexual activity with a prostitute can be accused of patronizing a prostitute pursuant to CRS § 18-7-205. Additionally, a person risks being arrested for patronizing a prostitute when he or she enters or remains in a place of prostitution with the intent to engage in sexual intercourse. Anyone convicted of patronizing a prostitute in Colorado is ordered to submit to an HIV test and notify the court of the results.
- Pimping: Anyone who lives on or is supported by money or other items of value received through prostitution can be charged with this crime, and pursuant to CRS § 18-7-206 it is a Class 3 felony punishable by up to 12 years in the department of corrections. It is a more serious offense than prostitution itself.
- Prostitute Making Display: This is a petty offense under CRS § 18-7-207, which refers to words, gestures, or acts meant to further the practice of prostitution in a public place.
What Are the Penalties for Prostitution Crimes?
- Prostitution: Class 3 misdemeanor - Up to 6 months’ incarceration and $750 fine.
- Soliciting for Prostitution: Class 3 misdemeanor - Up to 6 months in prison and $750 fine.
- Pandering (Felony): Class 5 felony - 1 to 3 years in prison followed by a 2-year period of parole, $1,000 to $100,000 fine.
- Pandering (Misdemeanor): Class 3 misdemeanor - Up to 6 months’ incarceration and $750 fine.
- Keeping a Place of Prostitution: Class 2 misdemeanor - 3 to 12 months’ incarceration and up to $1,000 fine.
- Patronizing a Prostitute: Class 1 petty offense - Up to 6 months’ incarceration and up to $500 fine.
- Pimping: Class 3 felony - 4 to 12 years in prison followed by a 5-year period of parole, and up to $750,000 fine.
- Prostitute Making Display: Class 1 petty offense - Up to 6 months’ incarceration and up to $500 fine.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Charged with Prostitution in Colorado?
No matter what type of prostitution-related crime you have been charged with, you have several options available to you. The first thing you should do is refuse to answer any questions and immediately request a Colorado Springs defense lawyer. An experienced legal professional can help protect your rights, explain what you are being asked, and work with you to form the best defense possible.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime related to prostitution in Colorado Springs, call The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., immediately at (719) 475-2555. We will discuss your case, explain your options, and help protect your rights.
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