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Pandering, a serious offense under Michigan law, involves various activities related to promoting or facilitating prostitution. If you find yourself facing charges of pandering, it is crucial to understand the legal implications and potential consequences. Below, criminal defense attorneys at George Law delve into Michigan Penal Code Section 750.455, explore the penalties associated with violating this law, examine potential defenses, and provide valuable insights for those who may require legal assistance.
What Is Michigan Penal Code Section 750.455?
Michigan Penal Code Section 750.455 defines certain actions related to prostitution as felonies, which are serious crimes. If you engage in any of the following behaviors, you may be found guilty of a felony and could face imprisonment for up to 20 years.
Procuring An Inmate For A House Of Prostitution
It is illegal to arrange for someone to work in a house of prostitution. If you are involved in the act of finding and bringing individuals to work in a brothel, you can be charged with a felony.
Inducing Or Persuading Someone To Become A Prostitute
It is a felony to persuade, encourage, or convince someone to become a prostitute. If you use tactics such as manipulation, enticing promises, or threats to influence someone into engaging in prostitution, you can be held accountable under this law.
Coercing Someone To Become An Inmate Of A Prostitution Establishment
Using various means like promises, threats, violence, or deceptive schemes, if you cause, persuade, or take someone and make them work at a house of prostitution or any place involved in prostitution, you can be charged with a felony.
Forcing An Inmate To Remain In A Prostitution Establishment
If you use promises, threats, violence, or any kind of scheme to make someone stay and continue working in a house of prostitution or any similar place, you may be charged with a felony.
Facilitating Prostitution Through Manipulation, Coercion, Or Abuse
Engaging in actions such as making promises, using threats, violence, fraudulent tactics, or taking advantage of a position of authority or trust to persuade, encourage, or coerce someone into engaging in prostitution is a felony offense.
Coaxing Or Transporting Someone For Prostitution Purposes
Persuading, enticing, or convincing someone to either come into or leave the state for the purpose of engaging in prostitution is considered a felony under this law.
Read more in our blog: Michigan Sex Trafficking Lawyer – Penal Code Section 750.459
Detaining Someone Under False Pretenses For Sexual Activity
Using the pretense of marriage to unlawfully hold or keep someone against their will for the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse is a felony offense.
Receiving Or Giving Money Or Anything Of Value For Prostitution Purposes
If you receive, give, or agree to receive or give money or anything else of value in exchange for procuring or attempting to procure someone to become a prostitute or to come into or leave the state for prostitution, you can be charged with a felony.
Defenses That Might Apply In Your Case
While the statute outlines several actions related to prostitution as felonies, there are certain defenses available to individuals who may find themselves facing charges under this law. It’s essential to understand these defenses, as they could potentially help you build a strong legal case.
Lack Of Intent
One possible defense is to argue that you did not have the intention to engage in the prohibited conduct outlined in the statute. If you can demonstrate that your actions were accidental or unintentional, it may cast doubt on the prosecution’s case against you.
Mistake Of Fact
If you genuinely believed that your actions were legal or that the person involved in the situation was not being coerced or forced into prostitution, you may be able to assert a defense of mistake of fact. It means that you made an honest mistake about the circumstances or details surrounding the situation.
Lack Of Knowledge
Another defense is to claim that you were unaware of the illegal nature of your actions. If you can demonstrate that you had no knowledge that the conduct you engaged in was considered illegal, it may serve as a defense. However, it is important to note that ignorance of the law is generally not a valid defense, so consulting with an attorney is crucial in this regard.
Duress Or Coercion
If you were compelled or coerced into engaging in the prohibited conduct by another person, you may be able to raise a defense of duress or coercion. It requires providing evidence that you were under serious threats or pressure that left you with no reasonable alternative but to commit the act.
Lack Of Evidence
Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution is a common defense strategy. If there are doubts about the credibility or sufficiency of the evidence against you, your defense attorney can raise objections and present counter arguments to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment
In some cases, if it can be shown that law enforcement officers or agents induced or coerced you into committing the offense, you may have a valid defense of entrapment. This defense asserts that you were not predisposed to engage in the criminal conduct and that you only did so due to the actions of the authorities.
Constitutional Violations
If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest process, it could provide a basis for a defense. Examples of constitutional violations include illegal search and seizure, denial of legal representation, or coerced confessions. Any violations should be brought to the attention of your defense attorney.
Seeking Legal Assistance From A Pandering Lawyer In Michigan
Facing pandering charges is an overwhelming and stressful experience. It is essential to seek professional legal guidance to protect your rights and advocate for the best possible outcome. If you have been charged with pandering in Michigan, don’t hesitate to reach out to George Law, a trusted law firm specializing in criminal defense.
By choosing George Law, you gain the following advantages:
Expertise
Our attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of Michigan’s legal system and are well-versed in the intricacies of pandering laws. We stay up-to-date with the latest developments to build robust defense strategies for our clients.
Strategic Defense
We will thoroughly analyze the details of your case, identify potential defenses, and develop a strategic plan tailored to your specific circumstances. Our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges and protect your rights.
Supportive Guidance
We understand the emotional and legal challenges you face. Our compassionate team will provide you with the support and guidance needed during this difficult time. We will keep you informed about your case, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have.
Strong Advocacy
Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and aggressive advocates in the courtroom. We will tirelessly fight for your rights, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, and work towards the best possible outcome on your behalf.
If you are facing pandering charges in Michigan, don’t face the legal system alone. At George Law, our dedicated attorneys will listen to your story, assess your case, and provide you with the personalized legal representation you need. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your legal situation and strive for a favorable resolution. Reach out to George Law today by calling (248) 247-7459 or by contacting us online.