How Police Sting Operations Lead to Prostitution Felony Charges in Illinois?

 Posted on September 19, 2025 in Sex Crimes

Police use sting operations to target people suspected of prostitution or solicitation. These undercover operations can lead to serious criminal charges. In some cases, the charges may even be felonies, depending on the facts. If you are facing felony charges related to a sting operation, you need help. A Cook County, IL prostitution defense lawyer will build your case and walk you through the legal process.

What Is a Sex Sting Operation?

A sting operation is when police use undercover officers to pose as sex workers or clients. They may place fake online ads, send text messages, or arrange in-person meetings. Officers then record these conversations or set up surveillance. Stings often happen in hotels, on the street, or online. While police claim these operations fight crime, they can sometimes cross the line into entrapment.

When Is Prostitution a Felony in Illinois?

Under 720 ILCS 5/11-14, prostitution is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties may include fines, probation, or short jail sentences. However, certain factors can raise the offense to a felony:

• Repeat offenses: If someone has prior convictions for prostitution or solicitation, later charges may be upgraded to felonies.

• Aggravated prostitution: Prior convictions or other aggravating circumstances can become felonies.

• Involvement of minors: If the case involves someone under 18, it is treated much more seriously and almost always leads to felony charges.

• Related felony charges: Suppose prosecutors believe someone was arranging or profiting from prostitution. They may add crimes such as promoting prostitution or human trafficking, which are always felonies.

When Is a Sex Sting Operation Entrapment?

Under 720 ILCS 5/7-12, entrapment happens when police pressure or convince someone to commit a crime they would not normally commit. In Illinois, entrapment can be a defense if the criminal idea started with the police, not the accused. Simply offering the chance to commit a crime is not enough. There must be evidence that officers pushed, convinced, or misled a person into agreeing.

Entrapment might work well as a defense if police pushed you to do something you would not normally do. For instance, if an undercover officer pressured you, offered extra money, or made it hard to say no, you may have a strong entrapment claim. The court will look closely at your intent, which is why entrapment is often a key issue in sex sting cases.

Other Common Legal Defenses Against Felony Prostitution Charges

Felony prostitution charges are not automatic convictions. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. In many cases, the evidence is weak or mishandled. Texts, phone records, or recordings may not have been collected properly. Sometimes, police violate a suspect’s rights through illegal searches or arrests. In other cases, mistaken identity plays a role, especially when online ads are involved. A defense lawyer will carefully review how the sting was carried out. They can often build a strong case just by looking for flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Contact a Chicago, IL Prostitution Charge Defense Attorney

At Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, Attorney James F. DiQuattro is accomplished, aggressive, and dedicated. He represents clients in state and federal investigations and knows where to find flaws in sting operations. If you or someone you love has been accused following a sting operation, you need a legal professional’s help now. Call 312-627-9482 today to talk to a Cook County, IL prostitution defense lawyer who will go the extra mile and fight for you at every stage of the process.