Vermont Child Enticement Laws

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Vermont child enticement laws will center around using either interpersonal or electronic communication to have improper sexual contact with minor children.  Specifically, in order for a defendant to be convicted of child enticement he or she must be over the age of 18 and commit the following acts:

• Solicit, lure, entice,
• A child under 16 years old or believed to be under 16years old
• To engage in a sexual act or
• Lew and lascivious conduct
• Via written, telephonic, or electronic communication

It is important to note that if the person is under 19 years old, the child is at least 15 years old, and the conduct is consensual then there will be no violation of the child enticement law.

Penalties for Child Enticement Vermont

If a person is convicted of child enticement then they will be guilty of a felony.  Penalties for child enticement conviction are imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine of no more than $20,000. A defendant will also be required to register as a sex offender with the state.

Defense of Child Enticement in Vermont

A defendant that has been charged with child enticement by computer will have available a number of defenses.  These defenses if asserted correctly could absolve the defendant of any criminal liability:

• Duress or compulsion where a person engages in criminal conduct due to threat of imminent death, or seriously bodily injury, or force.
• Ignorance to or mistake as a mater of fact that negates the element of intent to commit the crime
• Involuntary intoxication that results in lack of capacity to appreciate right from wrong
• Mental disease, defect, or insanity

Attempted Child Enticement in Vermont

A person can be found guilty of attempted online child enticement if they take a step towards committing the crime with the intent of committing the crime.  The step must strongly show that the defendant would have completed the crime of online child enticement if it were possible to do so.

When to Talk to a Lawyer

Whenever you are charged with a crime, you should contact an attorney.  Only an attorney licensed to practice law in your state can provide you with the advice and guidance you will need to adequately present your defenses and protect your rights.  Lawyers are aware of the criminal process and can make sure that your case receives the legal expertise it deserves.