Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Blog
This past Tuesday undercover police officers responded to an advertisement on Craigslist suggesting that the author was offering Sex For a Fee. The solicitation was provided by Heather Robinson who stated that she would be available at a motel in Framingham, Massachusetts. Officers arranged to meet her at her motel. During the meeting Robinson would perform full service sexual acts for one hundred fifty dollars. Once the agreement was finalized Robinson was arrested. She has been charged with Prostitution in the Framingham District Court.
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Prostitution Charges Issue Against Woman Who Used Craigslist To Advertise For Sexual Services
So what will happen to Robinson? Well, assuming she has no prior criminal record and that she Hire an Experienced Massachusetts Criminal Lawyer she might be able to walk away from this case without a criminal record. A dismissal with court costs, pre-trial probation or a continuance without a finding are all possible dispositions in this case.
This case brings up an interesting question that is being litigated nationally these days. Is Craigslist responsible for creating a public nuisance or is it in violation of federal and state prostitution laws? Just yesterday in Illinois a federal judge dismissed a case being brought by the Cook County Sheriff complaining that Craigslist is a public nuisance and in violation of various laws pertaining to prostitution. The suit claimed in part that Craigslist “solicits for a prostitute…by arranging meetings of persons for purposes of prostitution.” Similar lawsuits in other states are being filed as well. Craigslist has responded by making changes to its advertising solutions.
Attorney Stephen Neyman has been defending people accused of committing Sex Crimes including Prostitution in Massachusetts for over twenty years. We have successfully had cases like this dismissed on constitutional grounds, won jury and bench trials for people accused of these offenses and negotiated resolutions that have preserved the defendant’s lack of a criminal record. If you have been charted with one of these crimes call us at 617-263-6800 or contact us online.