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Respected Pennsylvania Law Firm Fights Charges of Internet Luring

Skilled Philadelphia attorney defends clients accused of child enticement

Internet luring means the use of online communications to induce a child into a potentially harmful situation. Fear of online predators has caused law enforcement officers to be on constant lookout for inappropriate behavior over the internet, which sometimes results in sting operations and arrests. At the Law Offices of David Jay Glassman in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we defend adults accused of using the internet for illegal enticement of a child. Our firm’s experienced attorney will listen to your side of the story and will zealously protect your rights.

How does Pennsylvania law define internet luring?

There is no specific crime of internet luring in Pennsylvania. Two separate criminal statutes are used in prosecuting alleged online predators.

Pennsylvania law prohibits an adult from luring a child into a motor vehicle or an enclosed structure without the express or implied consent of the child’s parent or guardian, except in circumstances where the child is in need of assistance. Luring can include inviting a minor, by any means of communication, to meet in person. The communication between the adult and minor may occur on the internet through social media, multiplayer video games, messaging apps, chat rooms, email or text messages.

A related crime occurs when an adult engages in contact with a minor for the purpose of committing sexual assault, indecent exposure, open lewdness, prostitution, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or any other sex crime, or to disseminate explicit sexual materials. The “minor” may not be a minor at all. A person can be convicted even if they were actually in communication with an adult law enforcement officer posing as a child under the age of 18.

Any accusation of luring, unlawful contact or other inappropriate behavior with a minor must be met with an aggressive defense. If you are facing such charges, our firm will strive to protect your rights while seeking the most favorable outcome possible.

What are the possible consequences for internet luring?

Pennsylvania imposes severe punishments for individuals convicted of internet offenses against minors.

Luring a child is a second-degree felony if the child is under the age of 13 and a misdemeanor if the child is between 13 and 18 years of age. A first offense for a second-degree felony is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

Unlawful contact with a minor is a third-degree felony, for which a first offense is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. A higher felony may be charged to match the degree of a related offense, such as sexual assault.

Under Megan’s Law in Pennsylvania, conviction for a child luring or contact offense can require mandatory registration as a sex offender for a period of 10 to 25 years. Registration carries a host of potential negative consequences, restricting where you can live, work and socialize.

Whatever charges you may be facing for alleged online conduct, we will provide a vigorous defense and seek a disposition that is the fairest and least disruptive of your life.

Contact an accomplished Philadelphia criminal defense attorney today

If you have been accused of internet luring or contact with a child, our seasoned criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of David Jay Glassman in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is prepared to vigorously defend your freedom and your rights. To arrange for a consultation, call 215-563-7100 or contact us online.