In Colorado, pandering involves the act of soliciting, procuring, or facilitating prostitution for financial gain. Whether you are accused of enticing someone into prostitution or profiting from the arrangement of sexual services, pandering charges carry significant legal consequences that can impact your personal and professional future, including registering as a sex offender.
Denver Lawyer for Pandering Charges
At Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C., our seasoned Denver criminal defense attorney has extensive experience representing clients charged with pandering offenses. We understand that an allegation of pandering—whether arising from a misunderstanding, miscommunication, or a momentary lapse in judgment—can leave you feeling overwhelmed, embarrassed, and uncertain about what lies ahead.
Your future is too important to risk facing these charges alone. Contact our office today at (303) 725-0017 to schedule your free initial consultation. Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C. proudly serves clients throughout the greater Denver area, including Adams County, Arapahoe County, Douglas County, Broomfield County, and Boulder County.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Pandering
- Key Elements
- Penalties
- Defenses
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hire a Lawyer for Pandering Charges
Pandering under Colorado Law
Pandering in Colorado generally refers to actions that involve:
- Soliciting or Procuring: Inducing another person to commit prostitution by criminal or intimidation or threat.
- Facilitating Prostitution: Profiting from or assisting in the organization of prostitution by receiving money, goods, or other benefits in exchange for the arrangement of sexual services.
Explicitly, pandering is codified under CRS § 18-7-203:
(a) Inducing a person by menacing or criminal intimidation to commit prostitution; or
(b) Knowingly arranging or offering to arrange a situation in which a person may practice prostitution.
Under Colorado law, pandering is taken seriously because it is believed to undermine public morality and contribute to the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Depending on the circumstances—such as whether the offense was a one-time occurrence or part of a pattern, or if minors were involved—the charge can be classified either as a misdemeanor or, in more severe cases, as a felony.
Penalties for Pandering in Colorado
The penalties for pandering vary based on factors such as the offender’s prior criminal history, the circumstances surrounding the offense, and whether aggravating factors are present. Typically:
- Misdemeanor:
- Up to one year in jail;
- Fines;
- Probation; and/or
- Community service
- Felony:
- Aggravating Circumstances: If the offense involves coercion, exploitation of minors, or is part of a pattern of criminal behavior, the charge may be elevated to a felony.
- Potential Penalties: Felony pandering can result in multiple years of imprisonment, substantial fines, and long-term collateral consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom.
Each case is unique, and the exact penalties will depend on the details of your situation and the discretion of the sentencing court.
Common Defenses
Common defenses to pandering charges include:
Lack of Criminal Intent – Demonstrating that your actions were not intended to procure prostitution or that there was no deliberate attempt to profit from such behavior can be key in undermining the prosecution’s case.
Ambiguity or Misinterpretation of Statements – Evidence may show that any statements or actions in question were misunderstood or taken out of context. Proving that your words were ambiguous or misinterpreted can help challenge the inference of pandering.
Absence of Financial Gain – If you can show that no monetary or tangible benefit was obtained from the alleged conduct, you may argue that the elements required for a pandering charge have not been met.
False Accusations or Mistaken Identity – In some cases, errors in identification or false accusations can result in pandering charges. A skilled attorney can work to discredit unreliable evidence and witness testimony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is pandering under Colorado law?
Pandering involves the act of soliciting, procuring, or facilitating prostitution for profit, or of criminally inducing a person to prostitution. This includes any behavior that encourages another person to engage in prostitution or that results in financial or material gain from such arrangements.
Is pandering considered a misdemeanor or a felony in Colorado?
Pandering is typically classified as a misdemeanor. However, if the offense involves aggravating circumstances—such as coercion, exploitation of minors, or is part of a repeated pattern of behavior—the charge may be elevated to a felony, resulting in much harsher penalties.
What are the potential penalties if I’m convicted of pandering?
Penalties can include jail time (up to one year for a misdemeanor and multiple years for a felony), fines, probation, and community service. A conviction will also result in a criminal record, which can impact your future employment and personal opportunities.
Can I defend myself against pandering charges?
Yes. Defenses may include demonstrating a lack of intent, proving that any ambiguous language was misinterpreted, or showing that no financial gain was involved.
Hire an Attorney for Pandering Cases in Denver, CO
At Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C., our dedicated Denver criminal defense attorney is committed to fighting these charges and ensuring your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.
Contact our office today at (303) 725-0017 to schedule your free initial consultation. Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C. proudly serves clients throughout the greater Denver area, including Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas, Broomfield, and Boulder counties. Protect your future with the robust legal defense you deserve.