What You Need To Know About Prostitution Sting Operations

Last updated: Nov. 24, 2025

Law enforcement in Washington frequently uses sting operations to target prostitution and solicitation. These operations rely on undercover officers posing as buyers or providers and often lead to fast arrests based on brief verbal exchanges. If you were arrested in a sting, you may have more defenses than you realize. This guide explains how these operations work, what police must follow, and what defenses may apply to your case.

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What Counts as Prostitution or Sexual Exploitation in Washington?

Prostitution involves engaging or agreeing to engage in sexual activity for compensation. Sexual exploitation, sometimes called patronizing or soliciting a prostitute, involves paying or agreeing to pay someone for sexual services.Washington law does not require a completed sexual act. Simply agreeing to exchange money for sexual activity can result in charges for prostitution or solicitation.

What are the Penalties for Soliciting a Prostitute in Washington?

Solicitation penalties can be significant, even for first-time offenses.Common consequences include:

• Fines starting at $1,500
• Up to 90 days in jail
• Probation
• Community service
• Mandatory educational programs

These penalties can affect employment, travel, licensing and future background checks, making early legal guidance essential.

Does a Sexual Act Need to Occur for Prostitution Charges to Apply?

Washington law does not require any physical sexual act for prosecutors to file charges. Under RCW 9A.88.030 and RCW 9A.88.110, agreeing to engage in or pay for sexual activity is enough to support prostitution or solicitation charges. A completed act is not required.

What Does a Prostitution Sting Look Like?

Sting operations typically involve undercover officers posing as clients or providers to identify individuals attempting to exchange money for sex.Features of common sting operations include:

• Officers responding to or posting online ads
• Undercover agents posing as providers in hotels or rented spaces
• Decoy massage or spa locations
• Quick arrests based on verbal agreements or implied arrangements

These operations rely on controlled environments and surveillance, which can create opportunities for legal challenges.

Defenses to the Solicitation of a Prostitute in Washington

If you find yourself caught in a police sting targeting prostitution, you may have a few defenses available to you. These defenses may include:

• Lack of Prior Understanding: A key defense is arguing there was no prior agreement that sexual conduct would occur. Misunderstanding or not understanding terms like “escort” or “full service” can support this defense.
• Incomplete Transaction: Arrests often occur before an agreement is finalized, crucial for the prosecution to prove. Simply communicating without agreeing to exchange money for sexual services may not constitute a complete transaction.
• Entrapment: This defense applies if the initiative for the criminal activity originated with law enforcement, and the individual was persuaded to commit a crime they wouldn’t otherwise have considered. However, it’s not enough to argue that law enforcement provided the opportunity for the crime; there must be evidence of inducement.

Have You Been Arrested in a Prostitution Sting Operation? 

If you’ve been arrested for patronizing a prostitute in Seattle or other areas of Washington State, you need to hire an attorney right away. Criminal defense attorney Jennifer Horwitz has extensive experience defending sex crime accusations, with a strong track record of obtaining dismissals and not-guilty verdicts. To learn more, contact Jennifer today for a consult.

Will my arrest in a prostitution sting be made public?

Many Washington police departments release sting operation arrest information through press releases or public records. Whether your name appears publicly depends on agency practices, media interest, and local reporting. An attorney can help you understand your privacy risks and explore options to reduce exposure.

Can a prostitution or solicitation charge be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, reductions or dismissals may be possible depending on the facts, available defenses, your record, and whether procedural errors occurred during the sting. Negotiation options vary by prosecutor and jurisdiction, so early attorney involvement is important.

DISCLAIMER: This post is intended to share my perspective, insights, and some general information on various aspects of Washington criminal cases. It is not legal advice and is not intended to substitute for legal advice. You should consult an attorney to obtain legal advice for your individual situation and case.