D.G. Moore is a Michigan criminal defense attorney with extensive experience defending individuals accused of child-related offenses, including Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Child for Immoral Purposes. This guide explains Michigan’s laws under MCL 750.145a and 750.145b, covering legal definitions, penalties, defenses, and what to do if you are facing charges.

Section 750.145a & 750.145b Michigan Legislature – Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Child for Immoral Purposes

750.145b Accosting, enticing or soliciting child for immoral purpose; prior conviction; penalty. Sec. 145b. (1) A person convicted of violating section 145a who has 1 or more prior convictions is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 10 years or a fine of not more than $10,000.00, or both.

Understanding Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Child in Michigan

Under MCL 750.145a, accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child for immoral purposes is a felony criminal offense in Michigan. This law makes it illegal for any individual to encourage, solicit, or induce a minor under 16 years old to engage in sexual acts, gross indecency, delinquent behavior, or acts of depravity. Soliciting a child for immoral purpose is a serious crime with severe penalties.

An individual does not have to physically act on the solicitation to be convicted. Simply making the request, whether in person, through messages, or online, is enough to face charges. Individuals may be held accountable regardless of whether they know the actual age of the child involved. Lack of knowledge regarding the child’s age is not a defense.

This offense is a felony punishable by imprisonment and fines, with penalties increasing based on prior convictions.

Legal Elements of Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Minor

To convict an individual under MCL 750.145a, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. The defendant engaged in accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child.

• This includes verbal requests, written messages, text communications, or online solicitations.

2. The target of the solicitation was under 16 years old (or someone the defendant believed to be under 16).
3. The defendant intended for the child to commit an immoral act, including:

• Engaging in sexual activity.
• Committing an act of gross indecency.
• Participating in delinquent or depraved behavior, child sexually abusive activity, or any other act.

Full text of MCL 750.145a – Michigan Legislature

Penalties for Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Minor

A conviction under MCL 750.145a carries severe legal consequences.

Individuals with a prior conviction face enhanced penalties if convicted of a subsequent offense. Prior convictions can lead to more severe sentencing.

Sex Offender Registration Requirements

• Accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child for immoral purposes is classified as a Tier 2 offense on the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry (PSOR).
• Convicted individuals must register for 25 years, with periodic updates and restrictions on employment, housing, and travel. 

Michigan Sex Offender Registry Information

Other Consequences of a Conviction

• Difficulty securing employment, particularly in jobs involving children.
• Potential CPS investigation and loss of parental rights.
• Social stigma and restrictions on residency and movement.
• Limited eligibility for professional licenses and government employment.

Defenses Against Accosting, Enticing, or Soliciting a Minor Charges

If you have been accused of accosting, enticing, or soliciting a minor, you need an aggressive defense. Common defense strategies include:

1. False Accusations or Misinterpretation

• Children and teenagers can be manipulated or pressured into making false claims.
• Digital messages may be misinterpreted, leading to wrongful allegations.

2. Entrapment by Law Enforcement

• Police sting operations sometimes lead to charges based on coercion or misleading tactics.
• If an officer initiated or encouraged the solicitation, entrapment may be a defense.

3. Lack of Criminal Intent

• If the defendant did not intend for the minor to commit an immoral act, the charge may not hold up in court.

4. Mistaken Identity

• If the evidence is based solely on an online username or phone number, proving that the defendant was not the one communicating with the minor can be a viable defense.

Understanding Your Rights – ACLU Guide

How an Experienced Michigan Defense Attorney Can Help

If you or a loved one is facing solicitation or enticement charges, acting quickly is critical. A conviction could mean prison time, sex offender registration, and permanent reputational damage. Many cases can be reduced or dismissed with the right defense.

At D.G. Moore Law, we have successfully defended clients against sex crime allegations by:

✔ Challenging false allegations and misidentifications.
✔ Exposing entrapment and misconduct in police investigations.
✔ Negotiating with prosecutors for charge reductions.
✔ Building aggressive defense strategies to fight convictions.

Call D.G. Moore Law at (269) 808-8007 today for a confidential case evaluation.

Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Sex Crime Defense

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for soliciting a minor in Michigan?

A conviction for accosting, enticing, or soliciting a minor for immoral purposes carries a felony charge with penalties of up to 4 years in prison and a $4,000 fine for a first offense. Repeat offenders face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Can I be charged if I didn’t know the person was under 16?

Yes. Michigan law states that lack of knowledge about the minor’s age is not a defense. Even if the defendant believed the individual was an adult, they can still be charged.

Can I get a solicitation charge dismissed?

Possibly. If the prosecution lacks solid evidence, if entrapment occurred, or if there is proof of false allegations, charges can be dismissed. An experienced attorney can evaluate the best defense strategy.

Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?

Yes. Soliciting a minor for immoral purposes is a Tier 2 sex offense, requiring registration for 25 years on the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry.

What should I do if I am accused of soliciting a minor?

• Do not speak to police without an attorney.
• Preserve all digital communications and evidence.
• Contact an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney immediately.