Can minors be charged with solicitation?
Christopher Ramos
Updated on March 19, 2026
Internet solicitation of a child in California covers two types of offenses: Under California Penal Code Section 272, it is unlawful to lure or attempt to lure a minor under the age of 14. Conviction can result in fines, up to one year in jail, and up to five years of probation.
What does online solicit of a minor mean?
Many “solicitation of a minor” cases occur over the internet. In most jurisdictions, solicitation of a minor is a criminal offense where a person engages in a conversation with a minor, and during that conversation, solicits or asks the minor to meet up to partake in a sexual act.
Is soliciting a minor a federal crime?
Soliciting a minor is a federal sex crime that violates U.S. laws. States can also maintain their own laws regarding sexual actions involving a minor.
Is online solicitation a crime?
Internet solicitation in this context essentially consists of seeking or arranging for services to provide sexual gratification over the internet in exchange for something of value. Criminal cases involving online solicitation can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony sex crime.
What is first degree solicitation?
Under our law, a person is guilty of Criminal Solicitation in the First Degree when, being over eighteen years of age, with intent that another person under sixteen years of age engage in conduct that would constitute a class A felony, he or she solicits, requests, commands, importunes or otherwise attempts to cause …
Is flirting with minors illegal?
Flirting — merely flirting, which is subjective though too — isn’t illegal on any level. What I mean by merely flirting, is that you can’t “flirt” to the level of sexually harassing anyone of any age. That level of “flirting” from one’s subjective POV, is illegal regardless of age.
Is it OK to text a minor?
It is not illegal to text a minor. However, it is illegal to “entice” a minor into sexual activities. So, if you asked for naked pictures knowing that this person was a minor, then yes it would be very illegal and you would be in a lot of trouble.
What is considered corruption of a minor?
The offense of engaging in sexual intercourse or other sexual activity with a person who is not one’s spouse and who is under the age of consent or another age set by statute, especially if there is a considerable age difference (usually four years or more) between the offender and the victim. See also rape.
What is considered online solicitation?
Any discussion or requests in doing any sexual acts of any shape or form, including oral or anal intercourse, is a major act of online solicitation. As well, enticing a minor to enter your home or vehicle can push online solicitation to even greater charges such as sexual assault.
What does solicitation of a minor mean?
The crime of sexual solicitation of a child occurs when an adult solicits a child (under 18) to engage in a sexual act or uses a computer or electronic device to solicit a child to engage in sex. It is not a defense that the police officer is actually an adult.