D.G. Moore is a Michigan criminal defense attorney with extensive experience defending individuals accused of conspiracy and solicitation crimes, including Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony. This guide explains Michigan’s laws under MCL 750.157c, covering legal definitions, penalties, defenses, and what to do if you are facing charges.
Michigan Penal Code Section 750.157c – Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony
Michigan Penal Code Section 750.157c makes it a felony for anyone 17 or older to recruit, induce, solicit, or coerce a minor (under 17) to commit or attempt to commit a felony, with penalties matching those for the underlying felony.
Understanding Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony in Michigan
Under MCL 750.157c, it is a felony offense in Michigan for an adult (age 17 or older) to recruit, solicit, or coerce a minor (under 17) to commit or attempt to commit a criminal offense that would be considered a felony if committed by an adult. Coercing a minor or coercing a minor to commit such offenses carries severe penalties, including imprisonment and significant prison time.
This law applies to violent crimes, theft offenses, drug-related crimes, and sex offenses, which are all types of felony crimes. The severity of penalties is based on the underlying felony. A person found guilty of these actions faces serious legal consequences. The law covers actions where an individual induces, solicits, or coerces a minor to commit a felony.
Specifically, it addresses those who recruit, induce, or solicit minors to engage in illegal acts. Soliciting or coercing a minor to commit a felony can result in substantial fines and long-term legal repercussions. The implications of coercing a minor to commit a felony are severe, emphasizing the seriousness of these offenses under Michigan law.
Full text of MCL 750.157c – Michigan Legislature
Legal Elements of Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony
To convict someone under MCL 750.157c, the prosecution must prove:
- The defendant was 17 years old or older.
- The defendant recruited, solicited, coerced, or induced a minor (under 17 years old).
- The defendant encouraged the minor to commit or attempt a felony-level crime, such as commit murder.
- The intended act was a felony offense under Michigan law.
Even if the minor does not follow through with the crime, a charge can still apply based on solicitation or conspiracy laws. The penalties for these actions include imprisonment authorized and imprisonment authorized by law, based on the law for that act. The maximum term for such offenses is determined by the severity of the crime.
Penalties for Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony
Penalties depend on the severity of the felony involved.
| Underlying Felony | Maximum Prison Sentence | Maximum Fine | Fine Authorized |
|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | Life in prison | No limit | No limit |
| Carjacking | Up to life in prison | No limit | No limit |
| Kidnapping | Up to life in prison | No limit | No limit |
| Drug Trafficking | Varies by drug quantity | Up to millions | Up to three times the standard amount |
| Robbery | Up to life in prison | Varies | Up to three times the standard amount |
| Larceny ($20,000 or more) | Up to 10 years | Three times the value stolen | Three times the value stolen |
| Other Felonies | Varies per felony statute | Three times the base penalty | Three times the base penalty |
Michigan Sentencing Guidelines – Michigan Department of Corrections
The duration of imprisonment authorized by law is determined by the specific felony committed.
Other Consequences of a Conviction
- Permanent Felony Record
- Loss of Employment and Professional Licenses
- Possible Sex Offender Registration (if related to sex crimes)
- Driver’s License Suspension (if drug- or vehicle-related)
- Probation, Community Service, and Mandatory Counseling
- Restricted Housing, Travel, and Firearm Rights
Defenses Against Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony
If you are charged under MCL 750.157c, you need a strong legal defense to avoid harsh penalties. Common defenses include:
1. Lack of Criminal Intent
- Mere conversation or association with a minor is not enough for a conviction.
- The prosecution must prove intent to commit a felony.
2. False Allegations
- Custody disputes, retaliation, or mistaken identity can lead to false accusations.
- Witness credibility and forensic evidence are key in these cases.
3. Entrapment by Law Enforcement
- If a police sting operation involved unfair coercion, an entrapment defense may apply.
4. No Felony Offense Occurred
- If the underlying felony never happened or the minor was not influenced, the charge could be dismissed.
Understanding Your Rights – ACLU Guide
How an Experienced Michigan Defense Attorney Can Help
A conviction for Recruiting, Inducing, Soliciting, or Coercing a Minor to Commit a Felony can have life-changing consequences.
At D.G. Moore Law, we aggressively defend our clients by:
✔ Challenging false allegations and witness credibility.
✔ Fighting for charge reductions or dismissals.
✔ Examining police conduct for entrapment violations.
✔ Building strong defenses based on forensic evidence.
Call D.G. Moore Law at (269) 808-8007 today for a confidential case evaluation.
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the minor does not commit the felony?
A charge can still apply based on attempt, solicitation, or conspiracy laws.
What is the penalty for recruiting a minor for a violent felony?
The defendant faces the same penalties as if they committed the felony themselves, which may include life in prison.
Can a solicitation charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. Weak evidence, lack of criminal intent, or entrapment can lead to charge reductions or dismissals.
Does a conviction under MCL 750.157c result in sex offender registration?
Only if the underlying felony involves sex-related crimes.
What should I do if I am accused of soliciting a minor for a felony?
- Do not speak to police without a lawyer.
- Preserve all digital and physical evidence.
- Contact a Michigan criminal defense attorney immediately.
