In the judicial system, it is possible for someone to be accused of a crime that they did not commit. While this is an uncommon occurrence, evidence and eyewitness testimony can sometimes mistakenly point to an innocent person.
False accusations may be more likely to occur in the context of certain criminal investigations. For example, police departments sometimes engage in sting operations to catch people in the act of committing a crime, such as solicitation of prostitution.
For someone to be charged with solicitation, they do not actually have to carry out the act of paying a prostitute. According to the law, a crime has been committed as soon as someone agrees to exchange money for sex. This can create scenarios in which false accusations might occur.
Arrested for soliciting prostitution?
A strong defense by a reputable Houston criminal defense lawyer can be the key to your best possible outcome.
Attorney Matthew D. Sharp
Being charged or accused of a crime is a frightening experience, especially when the allegation is false.
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State of Texas v. JB
Sexual Assault
Harris County Court – Jury trial
Not Guilty
State of Texas v. JP
Prostitution
Harris County Court
Pretrial Intervention
State of Texas v. MS
Prostitution & unlawful carrying of a weapon
Harris County Court – Jury trial
Not Guilty
(ON BOTH CHARGES)
Testimonials
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I needed legal representation immediately. It was an incredibly sensitive matter. Mr. Sharp met with me and provided exactly what we agreed upon. I was in a major bind and he proceeded to assure me that my situation was one that he would handle and keep my exposure at a minimum. I was pleased with the final outcome that he negotiated for me. If you find yourself in need of an attorney, I highly recommend Matthew Sharp.
Rod P Texas
False Allegations of Prostitution Solicitation
If someone has been accused of a crime that they did not commit, there are several important things to do. Beginning to work on a legal defense immediately is very important.
Some important first steps to take:
- Consult a defense attorney
- Collect any evidence that might show innocence
- Locate witnesses who can corroborate alibis
- Consider what evidence police may have gathered
While building a legal case, it is important to be mindful of certain behaviors that should be avoided. For instance, talking to police without a lawyer present should be avoided. Attempting to flee the area is also a very bad idea. Divulging any information about the case to friends and family could be disastrous as well.
Entrapment
Some people who are accused of soliciting a prostitute may believe that they have been victims of police entrapment. Entrapment is an illegal action that involves a law enforcement officer enticing someone to commit a crime that they would not otherwise have committed.
Police officers avoid entrapment allegations by setting up sting operations where potential clients approach an undercover officer. This tactic has the effect of showing that the alleged clients intended to solicit a prostitute and would have done so even if the sting operation didn’t take place.
While it is possible to base a legal defense on allegations of entrapment, it should not be the only defense tactic. A strong defense will use multiple types of evidence to show the defendant’s innocence.
Important Considerations
It may be possible for someone to be accused of soliciting prostitution because they engaged in an activity that appeared to be illegal. For example, a person paying for a massage is not breaking the law. Also, if someone approaches an undercover officer without realizing that the officer is posing as a prostitute, they might be charged.
These are important things to discuss with a lawyer when facing false criminal charges. If you have been accused of prostitution solicitation, make sure to reach out to a criminal defense attorney right away.
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