PENALTIES FOR PROSTITUTION IN NEW ORLEANS

On behalf of Craig E. Gibbs, Attorney at Law posted in drug charges on Thursday, March 2, 2017.

There are many different things to do in New Orleans, especially surrounding Mardi Gras. The streets will be packed with various people seeking to have a good time. People will consume a lot of alcohol as they celebrate. Sometimes after consuming too much alcohol people make some decisions that could lead to criminal charges. There are also people who also commit crimes while assisting in the person’s ability to commit the crime.

One of these activities is prostitution. It is often times referred to as the world’s oldest profession, but regardless of its tradition, it is illegal. If people are caught participating in prostitution, they could face criminal charges. If convicted they could also face significant criminal penalties which could have long-term consequences. A strong criminal defense is important.

The penalty the person receives depends onhow many times they have been convicted for the crime in the past. If it is the first time, the person could be fined up to $500 and sentenced up to six months in jail. If it is a second conviction within five years, the person could be fined between $250 and $1,000 and be put in jail for up to two years or both. If it is the person’s third or any subsequent conviction within five years, the person could be fined between $500 and $4,000 and be sent to prison for a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years.

Many people in New Orleans either engage in prostitution as the person paying or the person receiving the money. If the person is caught providing prostitution services they could face very harsh penalties. However, the person must be convicted before they are sentenced to these penalties. There may be defenses available to the person and the charges could be dismissed or the person acquitted at a criminal trial. It is important to understand these defenses to ensure one’s rights are protected.

Source: Louisiana State Legislature, “RS 14:82” accessed on Feb. 28, 2017

Tags: Drug Charges

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