Idaho Child Enticement Laws

The laws for child enticement will vary a bit depending on the age of the victim.  In order for a defendant to be convicted of felony child enticement in Idaho the following conditions must be proven:

• A person aged 18 years or older that knowingly
• Uses the internet to solicit seduce, lure, persuade or entice by words or actions, or both, a minor child under the age of sixteen (16) years
• To engage in any illegal sexual act. 

Misdemeanor child enticement convictions must show that:

• A person who is 18 years or older;
• Persuades via words and/or actions a minor under the age of 16; to
• Leave the child’s home or school; or
• Enter a building or vehicle with the intent of concealing the minor from public view;
• Without permission from the parents or guardians of the minor child

Penalties for Child Enticement in Idaho

Persons convicted of felony child enticement in Idaho will face a penalty of maximum imprisonment of 15 years with a fine assessment that will not exceed $150,000. In cases of misdemeanor child enticement, a defendant can be sentenced up to a maximum of 6 months and will face a fine of not more than $1000. Defendants will also have to register as sex offenders.

Defense of Child Enticement in Idaho

Individuals charged with child enticement in Idaho may be able to assert a number of defenses to avoid criminal prosecution.  Including:

• The accused was under duress from another person due to threats of or use of unlawful force that could not be resisted
• Involuntary intoxication
• The accused is mentally incapacitated by a mental defect or disease that renders them incapable of determining right from wrong

Attempted Child Enticement in Idaho

A person can be found guilty of attempted child enticement if they take a step to commit the crime with the intent of committing the crime. The step must strongly show that the defendant would have completed the crime of child enticement if they could have. This most often will occur in the situation where a defendant acts with intent to entice a minor that actually is a law enforcement officer. Attempt is punishable by a prison term of at least five years.

When to Talk to a Lawyer

Contacting an attorney as soon as you are charged with a crime is pivotal. Only an attorney licensed to practice law in your state is able to provide you with the expert advice and direction you need to adequately prepare your defense.