Missouri Child Enticement Laws

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Missouri’s child enticement laws focus on a person’s use of digital or electronic means along with in person methods for improper contact and or conduct with a minor child.  In order for a defendant to be convicted of the crime of child enticement, he or she must be over the age of 21 and be found to have committed the following acts:

• Persuade, solicit, coax, entice, lure
• By words, actions, or internet or any other electronic communication
• A person less than 15 years of age
• To engage in illegal sexual conduct.

Penalties for Child Enticement in Missouri

If a defendant is found guilty of enticement of a minor child, he or she will be guilty of a felony and will face a prison sentence of no less than five years and no more than thirty years.   A defendant convicted under this area of law will not be eligible for parole, probation, for a five-year period.

Defense of Child Enticement in Missouri

There are a number of defenses that may be asserted by the defendant that is being charged with child enticement.  Defenses can have the effect of absolving a defendant of liability if they apply to the particular facts of the case:

• Involuntary intoxication that prevents the defendant from being able to discern the difference between right and wrong;
• Mental disease or defect that has the effect of rendering the person unable to exercise sound judgment; or
• Duress due to the threat of or use of unlawful force.

Attempted Child Enticement in Missouri

Individuals that intentionally engage in conduct that would consist of online child enticement, but with an individual that is not actually a minor (more than often an undercover law enforcement officer) will be convicted of attempted child enticement.  Also, an individual that engages in conduct that strongly suggests a major step towards completion of the crime of online child enticement will be guilty of attempted child enticement. The offense of attempt carries the same penalty as if the crime were completed.

When to Talk to a Lawyer

Contacting an attorney when you are charged with an offense is a necessity to ensure your rights and defenses are protected.  Only an attorney licensed to practice law in your state can provide you with the sound legal advice you will need.