Probable Cause and Solicitation Investigations in DC
Probable cause for solicitation would require just words that constitute inviting, enticing, offering, persuading, or agreeing to engage in prostitution. They do not need any recorded evidence, they do not need to show that any money actually changed hands, they do not need to show that any sexual act or sexual contact was attempted or actually took place. All they need is the words that will constitute inviting, enticing, offering, persuading or agreeing to engage in prostitution. Therefore if you have been accused you should consult with a DC solicitation lawyer today to discuss your charge and develop a defense.
Vague or Unreasonable Suspicions
There can be issues of vague or unreasonable suspicions in these cases. In the situations where the words exchanged between the undercover officer and the suspect don’t concern a sexual act, don’t actually show that there was an agreement to engage in sexual acts or even agreement to exchange money for those sexual acts, there may not have been probable cause to make the arrest in the first place.
Who Are The Players Involved in Solicitation Investigations?
Typically there are three groups of people involved in a solicitation investigation.
- The undercover police officer
- The suspect, who would have no reason to know that the other person is an undercover officer.
- The uniformed officers or potentially non uniformed officers who then come in after the evidence has been gathered between the undercover officer and the suspect who then make the actual arrest.
Trends in DC Solicitation Investigations
The United States Attorney’s Office likes to resolve solicitation charges without going to trial. In spite of the fact that you may have been the subject of an undercover sting and you may have been arrested and may have been held in holding cell for several hours and then brought before a court and had several hearings, there’s still a very good chance that if you’ve never faced these charges before that your lawyer can work out a resolution to get your charges dismissed.
Contact a Lawyer Who Understands DC Solicitation Investigations
A DC solicitation lawyer who understands the way law enforcement in the District of Columbia investigates solicitation of prostitution cases can be an asset in protecting your rights. Solicitation investigations and arrests often follow a certain procedure involving undercover officers, the accused, and other officers. An attorney with experience in these cases can identify key discrepancies and departures from procedure on the part of the officers, and will likely have defended solicitation cases in court.
Furthermore, many solicitation cases are resolved without going to court. Having an experienced advocate at your side can help in the plea offers and negotiation with the United States Attorney’s Office that prosecutes these charges.
If you have questions about your case, what it could mean for your future, and the potential defense strategies and options available in your case, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney.