Often regarded as the oldest profession, prostitution is a hotly debated subject, even in the year 2025. Regardless of whether or not you believe this act should not be a crime, it currently stands as such, so understanding the penalties you can face if convicted is critical. As such, if you have been charged with a felony prostitution offense in Oklahoma, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with an Oklahoma City sex crimes lawyer to help you determine the best course of action for your unique circumstances.
What Constitutes Felony Prostitution in Oklahoma?
First and foremost, it’s imperative to understand how the law in Oklahoma defines prostitution. Generally, anytime someone engages in sexual acts with another person for payment, it constitutes prostitution. These sexual acts are not limited to sexual intercourse, but any intimate matter, including oral sex acts.
In most instances, prostitution in Oklahoma is a misdemeanor offense. However, there are several circumstances in which this can be elevated to a felony crime. Generally, if you are caught engaging in this offense within 1,000 feet of a school or church, you can face a felony charge. Additionally, it is a felony offense to engage in prostitution despite knowing you have an HIV infection.
You should also note that any prostitution crime involving children is automatically a felony offense. The law automatically assumes that any child under 18 engaging in this act is a victim and forced into the crime by another person.
However, you should also know that in 2023, reviewing the services of a prostitute online is a felony offense. As such, you can face a felony crime for simply reviewing your experiences on a website with the intention of promoting and facilitating prostitution.
What Penalties Can I Face if Convicted?
If you are convicted of a felony prostitution offense in Oklahoma, you can face serious consequences. This is true regardless of whether or not you are paying for the acts, performing them, or facilitating the encounter.
Prostitution within 1,000 feet of a school or church, or knowingly engaging in the act despite having an HIV infection, carries up to five years in prison and hefty fines. You can also face mandatory community service and hefty fines of up to $2,500 for a first offense. Posting reviews carries a prison sentence of up to three years and no more than $1,000 in fines, while child prostitution carries the potential for ten years in jail and fines of up to $5,000 for a first offense.
If you are facing a prostitution offense in Oklahoma, it’s imperative to connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At the Jones Firm, PLLC, our dedicated legal team understands the implications of this offense and the impact it can have on your life. As such, we will fight to help you reach the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn more.
