Criminal Defense Sex Offenses
Online Solicitation of a Minor
Online solicitation of a minor is one of the most aggressively prosecuted sex offenses in Texas. Under Texas Penal Code § 33.021, it is a felony to communicate in a sexually explicit manner with a minor, or to solicit a minor to meet for sexual purposes, using the internet, a phone, or any electronic device. These cases often involve undercover law enforcement operations, and charges can be filed even when no actual minor was involved. Todd Rash provides experienced, discreet defense for clients facing these charges throughout North and Central Texas.
Texas Law Penal Code § 33.021
Soliciting a minor to meet for sexual purposes is a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison. If the minor is under 14, or if the defendant believes the minor to be under 14, the offense is elevated to a first-degree felony, carrying 5 to 99 years or life in prison. Sending sexually explicit communications to a minor is a third-degree felony. Critically, it is not a defense that the "minor" was actually an undercover law enforcement officer.
Undercover Sting Operations
Many online solicitation cases arise from law enforcement sting operations in which officers pose as minors in chat rooms, dating apps, or social media platforms. These operations raise significant constitutional and procedural issues, including entrapment, improper inducement, and the reliability of digital evidence. Todd Rash scrutinizes every aspect of how the investigation was conducted.
Digital Evidence and IT Experts
Online solicitation cases are built almost entirely on digital evidence, including chat logs, emails, text messages, and device data. Todd Rash retains experienced information technology professionals who can challenge the authenticity, chain of custody, and interpretation of this evidence, and who can identify alternative explanations for the communications at issue.
Potential Penalties
- › Solicitation to meet: 2nd-degree felony (2 to 20 years in prison
- › Solicitation of a child under 14: 1st-degree felony (5 to 99 years or life
- › Sexually explicit communication: 3rd-degree felony (2 to 10 years
- › Mandatory sex offender registration
- › Substantial fines
Possible Defenses
- › Entrapment by law enforcement
- › Lack of intent to meet or engage in sexual conduct
- › Mistaken belief regarding age
- › Fabricated, altered, or misattributed digital evidence
- › Unauthorized use of device or account
- › Unconstitutional search or seizure of electronic devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing Online Solicitation of a Minor charges?
Todd Rash has a proven record defending clients throughout Texas. Call now for a free consultation.
Free Consultation(817) 808-2247Understanding the Cost of a Sex Offense Defense
Sex offense cases are among the most complex and resource-intensive in criminal law. Attorney fees are typically on par with murder and other serious felony charges a reflection of the time, preparation, and expertise required.
An effective defense often requires retaining outside experts: polygraph examiners, licensed psychologists for psychosexual evaluation, private investigators, and information technology professionals. These expert fees are separate from attorney fees and are the responsibility of the client.
Todd Rash will be straightforward with you about anticipated costs from your very first consultation.