§ 567.050 RSMo – First-Degree Promoting Prostitution Charges in Missouri

567.050. Promoting prostitution in the first degree — penalties — civil action for victims — restitution.

This law punishes people who force others into prostitution, exploit minors, or run websites that promote prostitution.

It is a serious crime to make someone engage in prostitution by force, involve someone under 16, or operate a website to promote prostitution. Victims can sue, and courts can order restitution.

1. A person commits this crime if they knowingly:

1. Force someone to become or stay involved in prostitution;
2. Promote prostitution of someone under 16; or
3. Run or help run a website with the intent to promote or enable prostitution.

2. “Compelling” a person includes:

• Using force or threats,
• Drugging them so they can’t say no, or
• Withholding drugs from someone addicted to them.

3. Penalties:

1. If done by force or by running a site — it’s a class B felony;
2. If the website contributed to sexual trafficking — it’s a class A felony;
3. If the victim is under 16 — prison for 10–15 years.

4. Victims of these crimes can sue for damages and attorney’s fees.

5. Courts must also order restitution (money to cover the victim’s losses) if the conviction involves minors or websites that promote prostitution.

View the full statute here

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