Patronizing a prostitute charges in Denver can result when someone has some form of sexual contact with another for money. Additionally, when you enter a location intending to engage in sexual acts with a prostitute, criminal charges can also follow. This crime is more serious than soliciting a prostitute as it takes things a step further beyond simply offering money for sex. Any charges or allegations regarding prostitution crimes in Denver requires help from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Colorado's Patronizing a Prostitute Law

CRS 18-7-205 describes the specific elements of patronizing a prostitute in Colorado. Someone commits this offense in Denver, Lodo, or Stapleton if they:

• engage in an act of sexual intercourse or deviate sexual conduct with a prostitute,
• or enter / remain in a place of prostitution intending to engage in sexual acts with a prostitute

Patronizing a prostitute occurs once the physical sexual contact with the person takes place. The entering or remaining element of this crime is especially important as more and more locations are being disguised as spas or massage practices. Intentions can be misinterpreted when it comes to sex, heightening the need for a strategic attorney on your side.

Can You Go to Jail for Patronizing a Prostitute in Colorado?

While patronizing a prostitute in Colorado is a misdemeanor crime, it is a class 1 misdemeanor. This means the sentencing range includes:

• 6 – 18 months in county jail,
• fines of $500 – $10,000

The expansive fine range is due to the possibility of the crime applying to Colorado's prostitution enforcement cash fund. Additionally, the persona of being a “john” can be extremely detrimental to someone's personal life. Question of character, the possibility of divorce, and potentially losing your job can all become a harsh reality upon conviction.

Denver Prostitution Defense Attorney

Finding a skilled defense attorney with experience representing clients facing prostitution crimes is essential in these cases. We have decades of experience defending those charged with soliciting or patronizing a prostitute and prepared to fight for you. Perhaps the other person in your case wasn't a prostitute, there was no money exchanged, or you didn't know the location was a place of prostitution. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. We will carefully analyze your unique case and recommend next steps in your defense.

So, if you or someone you know is facing patronizing a prostitute charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the determined defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Erik Lucatero