May 13, Sex Crimes. However, when performed correctly, an escort may offer a legal service to a client. In short, prostitution is the exchange of sex for money or something else of value. For example, escorts may accompany a client to a business function, dinner, or other activity, but sex does not take place.
Solicitation is the act of offering someone something of value to engage in sexual conduct with you. Prostitution is the act of performing sexual acts for money or something else of value. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly solicit or entice a person to utilize the services of a prostitute. Ohio also explicitly makes it a crime to participate in solicitation or prostitution when you know you are HIV positive. The charges are more severe if you engage in sexual conduct in exchange for money when you have HIV.
Most prostitution charges are misdemeanors. For example, soliciting a prostitute can result in a third-degree misdemeanor. However, the charges and penalties for prostitution charges can increase significantly depending on the facts of the case. For example, being HIV positive or engaging in prostitution with a minor could result in felony charges.
In addition, forcing someone to have sex for money could result in human trafficking charges. An escort is paid for their time, not for sex.
Escorting is not illegal if it does not involve sex. Some prostitutes try to avoid criminal charges by claiming they provide escort services. However, an agreement to have sex after the event is considered prostitution. Escorts must be careful if they want to avoid prostitution charges.
