The prosecution of individuals traveling to foreign countries to engage in sex with minors, commonly referred to as "sex tourism," is dramatically on the rise.  The passage of the PROTECT Act and the Department of Homeland Security's "Operation Predator" has led to vigorous prosecution on the state and federal level.

There are many critics of these prosecutions as it involves the prosecution of conduct outside of the United States.  Indeed, many individuals are prosecuted before leaving the United States because the person "attempted" to have sex with a minor by purchasing a "sex tourism trip" or "sex vacation" with a travel agency.  At least one appellate judge who opposes the law has found this akin to rounding up Americans who buy marijuana in Amsterdam. 

In addition, there are issues of "entrapment," as often, the agents from the federal government post ads for sex vacations and then offer underage girls as companions or nightly escorts.  Rather than focusing on the prosecution of pedophiles who have already preyed on young children around the world, prosecutors continue to use these new laws to indict people who have never even previously traveled abroad.

Mr. Seitles criminal defense firm is prepared to aggressively defend you or your loved one's rights.  This area of the law continues to evolve and the preparation of well thought out legal motions by a criminal attorney who specializes in this area of the law is a must to preserve your rights.  Mr. Seitles' oral and written advocacy and creative criminal defense trial strategies make the difference for his clients charged with sex tourism crimes.

Call Mr. Seitles today at (305) 379-6667 or contact us online to schedule an appointment for your free initial consultation.