There are three types of stings in Denver, Jefferson, and El Paso County which result in prostitution and solicitation charges. The Littleton, Lakewood, Denver, and Aurora Police conduct three types of operations:

• Colfax Street Stings
• Massage Parlor Stings
• Craigslist / Internet Stings

Let's take a look at all three of these prostitution and solicitation stings in order to understand the importance of working with a knowledgeable, skilled criminal defense lawyer if you have been charged.

First, What is Prostitution and Solicitation?

Prostitution and solicitation are sexual crimes in Colorado. In order for a District Attorney or City Attorney to convict someone of Prostitution – C.R.S. 18-7-201, they must prove that you offered to perform a sexual act (cunnilingus, masturbation, anal intercourse, or sexual intercourse) with another person, not a spouse, in exchange for money, or any other thing of value (such as rent, or goods). In order for the DA to convict someone of Solicitation of a Prostitute – C.R.S. 18-7-202, they must prove you solicited the services of a prostitute, or arranged for others to meet for the purpose of prostitution.

Sting operations are common throughout the Denver area.

Most Common: Colfax Street Sting Operations

Sting operations on East Colfax are a favorite of the Denver Police Department. These types of operations have been going on for over a decade.

The Sting Setup: A female police officer poses as a prostitute on Colfax. This is a common area for prostitutes to work, so the officer fits in. When men approach her, the officer steers the conversation to get them to admit they want to pay her for a sexual act. What they don't know is that she's wearing a device which records everything they say to her. The officer then agrees to meet the men nearby, where officers are waiting to arrest the men. Their cars are confiscated, and won't be able to be returned until a heavy fine of at least $1,200 is paid, as well as fines of close to $600.

The Charges: These sting operations are motivated mainly by the money which will be generated by the Denver Police Department, and Lakewood Police Department (for sting operations run on West Colfax). If a person is caught in a sting operation, they will be charged with Solicitation. A conviction of this offense can have a negative effect on your future, which is why it is wise to work with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who will help arrange a plea agreement with the Denver City Attorney. Often, we are able to work out agreements which will keep a Prostitution or Solicitation charge off your permanent record.

Massage Parlor Sting Operations Across Denver

Massage parlor sting operations have grown more common in the past few years in Douglas, Arapahoe, and Adams County. Let's take a look at how they work.

The Sting Setup: For this sting operation, the police advertise massages in questionable magazines in the Denver area. Then, they wait for men to call and ask for “additional services.” They agree to these services, and then arrest the men upon their arrival at the massage parlor when they come for their appointment.

Craigslist and Internet Sting Operations

Another common sting operation is run by the police across Colorado. These are set up online, and are used to trap men into agreeing for the services of a prostitute.

The Sting Setup: The police post on Craigslist and other sites across the internet, advertising the services of prostitution. Police officers stage houses of prostitution, and other staging areas throughout the Front Range. Then, they respond to men who contact them about the advertisement, and arrange a meeting. At the meeting, the men are arrested and charged with Solicitation of a Prostitute.

Why You Need a Lawyer after Prostitution and Solicitation Stings

If you've been charged with solicitation of a prostitute, or prostitution, you need to contact an outstanding sex crimes defense lawyer immediately. While these crimes aren't sex offenses under Colorado law, you will be required to take educational classes and pay fines. You could also be required to spend time in county jail after repeat offenses, or lose your car. Don't put your future at risk with a conviction of either of these crimes. Instead, work with a lawyer who understands the importance of a clean criminal record, and will fight hard to get the charges against you dismissed, or work out a favorable plea agreement to keep it off of your record.

If you or a loved one is facing Prostitution and Solicitation charges in Colorado because of prostitution and solicitation stings, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced sex crimes defense attorney at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC for a free consultation at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.