Have You Been Charged with Keeping A Place of Prostitution in Atlanta?

A charge of keeping a place of prostitution is serious and can lead to serious, long-term consequences. A conviction could not only threaten your liberty, finances, and reputation, but having to register as a sex offender would bring with it a whole new set of problems. Therefore, it is important that you have a skilled attorney experienced with sex crimes cases to guide you through the legal process. Kimberly Berry is an experienced trial attorney who is ready to mount an aggressive defense on your behalf. She will do everything in her power to prevent mere accusations from permanently damaging your future.

Georgia Keeping A Place of Prostitution Laws

According to Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 16-6-10), “A person having or exercising control over the use of any place or conveyance which would offer seclusion or shelter for the practice of prostitution commits the offense of keeping a place of prostitution when he knowingly grants or permits the use of such place for the purpose of prostitution.”

Punishments for Keeping A Place of Prostitution in Georgia

A conviction for the crime of keeping a place of prostitution can bring with it very serious consequences, especially if the criminal activity involved minors. This offense is usually considered a misdemeanor of a high or aggravated nature. Depending on the circumstances, it could result in jail time, a fine, community service and/or registration as a sex offender.

However, keeping a place of prostitution can be charged as a felony if it involves children. If one or more accomplices in the crime is under 18 years of age but over 16, the offender will face 5-20 years in prison, a fine of $2,500-$10,000, or both. If the crime involves a child under 16 years of age, the sentence can rise to 10-30 years in prison, a $100,000 fine, or both. In addition, if the crime took place within 1,000 feet of a school, place of worship, or playground used by children, an additional $2,5000 will be levied.

Why Do I Need a Prostitution Defense Lawyer?

A charge of keeping a place of prostitution does not necessarily lead to a conviction. The burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt falls on the prosecution, and many elements must be established to support a conviction. To be guilty of keeping a place of prostitution, a person must “knowingly” permit their establishment to be used for prostitution. That person must also have or exercise control over the “place or conveyance” used for prostitution. If a person did not know what was occurring at the establishment, if they did not exercise control over the place, or if prostitution was not even occurring, they should not be convicted. Kimberly will listen to your side of the story and present you in the best light possible the prosecutors and, if necessary, a jury. It is important that you have an advocate as early as possible in your case, so call the Berry Law Group today.