What is Online Solicitation of a Minor?
The internet as we know it is growing each and every day. Anonymity and access are available to people of all ages and nobody can ever be sure they’re quite who they say they are. Police departments in New Jersey have dedicated more time and resources into investigating alleged sex crimes online.
Solicitation of a minor occurs when a defendant is engaged in a conversation with a minor online and the defendant asks, or solicits, the minor to meet online or in person to engage in a sexual act. The most common form of online solicitation used to be in the form of chatrooms and email. But as platforms have expanded quickly overtime, different methods have been included into the definition. Online solicitation of a minor can occur over:
· SMS/Text Messaging
· Instant Messaging
· Social Networks
· Message Boards
· Online Forums
· Photo Sharing Sites
Online solicitation of a minor is the most high-profile of online sex crimes. Federal and state law enforcement is aggressive and the charges are heavy handed. Being convicted of online solicitation of a minor is an extremely serious occurrence that can affect your life in every way. It could result in being labeled a sexual predator and it can dictate where you live, the employment you can have, and your role in society.
Have you have been charged with online solicitation of a minor? You need someone to take your side and protect your rights. John W. Tumelty is an Atlantic City criminal defense attorney who can fight for you. Call us today at 609-390-4600 for your consultation. We will immediately begin investigating whether the evidence against you was obtained through an illegal search and whether you have any valid defenses against the charges. We represent clients in Cape May County, Atlantic County, Ocean City, Sea Isle City, Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood, and other counties throughout South Jersey. Schedule your consultation with our law offices today.
