A multi-agency law enforcement task force has arrested two dozen men in an undercover operation targeting child sex crimes and human trafficking.
The Mesa Police Department partnered with the Tempe, Gilbert and Chandler police departments as well as the Attorney General’s Office as part of the undercover operation, known as "Operation Degrossting."
Over a period of six days, officers and undercover detectives placed ads on websites commonly sought out by suspects seeking illegal sex acts. Charges against the suspects include Luring of a Minor for Sexual Exploitation, Aggravated Luring of a Minor for Sexual Exploitation, and Money Laundering.
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Local police have been running this type of sting operations for years. And for almost as many years, Phoenix criminal defense attorney Jason Lamm has been representing those arrested and accused in the operations. A former sex crimes prosecutor, Jason understands what police can lawfully do in an investigation of this nature, and what they cannot. Often times, he is able to develop evidence to show that police engaged in entrapment.
WHAT IS ENTRAPMENT UNDER ARIZONA CRIMINAL LAW
Generally speaking, if (1) The idea of committing the offense started with law enforcement officers or their agents rather than with the person, (2) The law enforcement officers or their agents urged and induced the person to commit the offense, and (3) The person was not predisposed to commit the type of offense charged before the law enforcement officers or their agents urged and induced the person to commit the offense, then entrapment has occurred and the suspect is not guilty of the offense charged.
WHAT ARE THE PENALITES FOR LURING OF A MINOR FOR SEXUAL EXPLOITATION
If the minor is under 15 years of age, luring of a minor for sexual exploitation is classified as a dangerous crime against children under Arizona law and carries a significantly enhanced prison sentence. While few sting operations use minors age 14 or younger as bait, a conviction for any form of luring of a minor for sexual exploitation will result in lifetime registration as a sex offender.
The Arizona legislature has eliminated the defense that the would be minor is an undercover police officer in an effort to crack down on people who solicit sex from underage individuals. With limited defenses available, only a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in defending this type of case can typically get you the results that you need so an arrest for this type of case does not affect you for the rest of your life.
GET JASON LAMM ON YOUR SIDE
With 23 years of experience practicing criminal law, some of which was as a sex crimes prosecutor, if you are facing a luring of a minor for sexual exploitation charge, Jason Lamm can help you navigate the challenges that are unique to this type of case. His recent results demonstrate the care and attention he puts in to all of his cases. Confidential consultations can be scheduled by calling (602) 663-9100.