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720 ILCS 5/11-26

Traveling to Meet a Minor

 

  • Class 3 Felony
  • 2-5 years in prison
  • Register as a Sex Offender
  • Fine up to $25,000
  • Call for more details

 

Understanding Traveling to Meet a Minor in Illinois

Traveling to meet a minor is a serious criminal offense under Illinois law, involving an adult traveling to a location with the intent of engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a minor. This crime often involves communication over the internet, text messages, or other forms of electronic communication, where the adult arranges to meet the minor. A conviction for traveling to meet a minor can result in severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

 

What Constitutes Traveling to Meet a Minor in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, traveling to meet a minor is defined in the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) under 720 ILCS 5/11-26. The offense occurs when an individual, 18 years of age or older, travels any distance within, to, or from Illinois with the intent to engage in sexual conduct or sexual penetration with a person they know or believe to be under the age of 17. Key elements of this crime include:

 

  • Communication with a Minor: The individual has engaged in communication with a minor, knowing or believing the person is under the age of 17.
  • Travel for Unlawful Intent: The individual travels to meet the minor with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity.
  • Pre-Arranged Meeting: The travel is arranged after prior communication, whether electronic or otherwise, between the individual and the minor.

Examples of Traveling to Meet a Minor Under 720 ILCS 5/11-26

Here are specific examples of traveling to meet a minor as defined under Illinois law:

 

  1. Traveling After Online Communication
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-26(a)
    • Description: An adult travels to meet a minor after engaging in online communication where the intent to engage in sexual activities is discussed.
  2. Driving to a Location to Meet a Minor
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-26(a)
    • Description: An adult drives to a specific location to meet with a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct, following prior communication.
  3. Crossing State Lines to Meet a Minor
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-26(a)
    • Description: Traveling from another state to Illinois with the intent of meeting a minor for illegal sexual activities.

Penalties for Traveling to Meet a Minor in Illinois

Traveling to meet a minor is classified as a felony offense in Illinois, reflecting the seriousness of the crime. Depending on the circumstances, penalties can include:

 

  • Class 3 Felony:
    • 2 to 5 years in prison
    • Fines of up to $25,000
    • Mandatory registration as a sex offender
  • Class 2 Felony (Aggravating Circumstances):
    • 3 to 7 years in prison
    • Fines of up to $25,000
    • Lifetime registration as a sex offender

A conviction for traveling to meet a minor carries severe consequences beyond legal penalties, including a permanent criminal record, restricted employment opportunities, and significant social stigma.

 

Why Choosing Andrew M. Weisberg is Essential for Your Defense

Facing charges of traveling to meet a minor is an incredibly serious and daunting experience. Andrew M. Weisberg, a former Cook County prosecutor, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the criminal justice system to your defense. Here’s why choosing Mr. Weisberg is the best decision you can make:

 

  • Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: With extensive experience in handling cases involving the solicitation and exploitation of minors, Mr. Weisberg is well-versed in the laws and tactics used by prosecutors in these cases.
  • Strategic Defense Planning: Mr. Weisberg will carefully examine all aspects of your case, including communication records and travel arrangements, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a strong defense.
  • Compassionate and Discreet Representation: Understanding the sensitive nature of these charges, Mr. Weisberg provides compassionate, discreet, and confidential legal representation to protect your rights and your future.
  • Aggressive Legal Advocacy: Mr. Weisberg is known for his aggressive defense strategies, ensuring that every possible angle is explored to achieve the best outcome for his clients.

When facing charges of traveling to meet a minor, you need an attorney who not only understands the complexities of the law but also has the experience and determination to fight for your rights. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing you with a robust defense and the best possible legal representation.

 

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how he can help protect your rights and future.