Have You Been Charged with Pimping in Atlanta?

While popular culture often glorifies the lifestyle associated with “pimping”, the state of Georgia considers this act a serious crime. If you have been arrested for pimping, it is vital that you take these charges seriously and act immediately to protect your interests. A conviction can lead to serious consequences, including heavy fines, jail time, and having to live your life as a registered sex offender. Kimberly Berry is an experienced attorney who has handled many cases involving sex crimes. She will listen to your side of the story and work tirelessly to get your charges dropped or reduced. If necessary, she is ready to go to trial and present an aggressive defense on your behalf.

Georgia Pimping Laws

According to the state of Georgia, the crime of pimping (O.C.G.A.  16-6-11) has occurred when a person performs one or more of five specified acts. These acts include:

1. Offering or agreeing to procure a prostitute for another;

2. Offering or agreeing to arrange a meeting of persons for the purpose of prostitution;

3. Directing or transporting another to a place when he or she should know that the direction or transportation is for the purpose of prostitution;

4. Receiving money or other thing of value from a prostitute, without lawful consideration, knowing it was earned in whole or in part from prostitution; or

5. Aiding or abetting, counseling or commanding another in the commission of prostitution or aiding or assisting in prostitution where the proceeds or profits derived therefrom are to be divided on a pro rata basis.

Punishments for Pimping in Georgia

In Georgia the offense of pimping is considered a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. The punishment for a pimping conviction varies depending on the circumstances and may include fines, jail time, sex offender registration and community service. If the crime took place within 1,000 feet of a school, place of worship or playground used by children under the age of 17, an additional $2,500 fine will be levied.

There are some circumstances where pimping is treated as a felony, which brings with it a harsher punishment. These usually involve offenses in which the prostitute involved is underage. A person convicted of pimping a child between the ages of 16 and 18 will be charged with a felony and faces 5-20 years in prison and a fine of $2,500-$10,000. A conviction for pimping a child under 16 years of age will be treated as a felony and carries a sentence of 10-30 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

Why Do I Need a Pimping Defense Lawyer?

A conviction for pimping can bring with it life-changing consequences. However, being arrested and charged does not automatically result in a conviction. The burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt falls upon the prosecution, and many defenses are often available to fight pimping charges. Kimberly understands that people are often wrongfully accused and will listen to your story with an open mind. She will work with you to develop the best defense strategy possible and will be with you every step of the way through the legal process. Call the Berry Law Group today so you can begin protecting your rights and preserving your freedom.