Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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Many crimes related to prostitution are illegal in Missouri. Prostitution, whether it involves streetwalking, high-class escorts, or brothels full of trafficking victims, is prohibited. So is patronizing a prostitute, also known as solicitation. In Missouri, promoting prostitution, or pimping, and promoting sex tourism are illegal. Both are subject to higher penalties than the prostitute or customer generally face. Pimping or promotion charges are all felonies rather than the misdemeanors typical of prostitution charges.
Contrary to a harmful myth, it's both possible and illegal to rape a prostitute. Going beyond the agreed upon acts with a prostitute is still non-consensual sexual activity covered by the Missouri sexual offense laws . For more information, see the Missouri Rape and Sexual Assault article.
Generally, prostitution related charges are misdemeanors or felonies subject to the regular range for each class of offense in Missouri, as described in the table below. However, alternative penalties are available. In recognition of the co-occurrence of drug and alcohol dependency and prostitution, judges can order a person found guilty of prostitution to a drug and alcohol treatment program. If the defendant successfully completes the program, the court can change the plea or verdict to not guilty. Missouri law also permits individuals arrested for prostitution related crimes, if they have a prior prostitution related conviction, to be required to have an HIV test before bonding out of jail.
The following table highlights the main provisions of Missouri's prostitution related laws.
Code Sections |
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What is Prohibited? |
It’s a crime in Missouri to engage in any of the following prostitution related activities:
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Penalty Levels |
Penalties vary depending on the defendant's conduct, the crime convicted of, and prior convictions:
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Penalties |
Punishments for felonies and misdemeanors in Missouri vary by class. The penalty ranges by offense class are:
Additional penalties for offering travel for prostitution purposes include revocation of the articles of incorporation of the travel agency or charter tour operator (that is, Missouri no longer recognizes its legal status to do business in the state) and freezing the company bank accounts. |
Note: State laws are constantly changing -- it's important to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Dealing with any criminal charge is often a trying experience. If you find yourself facing any prostitution related charges, you should contact an experienced Missouri criminal defense attorney or public defender for assistance.
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