Soliciting Another to Commit Prostitution

"Recently, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department and Tampa Police Department have been vigorously enforced the Florida Statutes pertaining to Solicitation to Commit Prostitution. Florida Statute 796.07. There have been various listing operations" throughout Hillsborough County. The primary means utilized by law enforcement is through social media. They pose as a prostitute and agree to meet for sex. Law Enforcement agents have rented hotels throughout Hillsborough County to meet potential offenders. Particularly, they have used hotels in Brandon, South Tampa, Carrollwood, West Chase, and New Tampa. Typically, the offender is arrested when he appears at the hotel room. The penalties for solicitation can be quite severe. Although the first offense is a Misdemeanor, possible penalties include community service, court costs, and possible impoundment of your vehicle. In addition, there is a $5,000.00 civil fee that must be imposed by the Court. The second offense results in a Felony charge and a mandatory minimum 10 days in jail. Contact our office for a free consultation to discuss defense options.