Criminal solicitation

Nature

To command, induce, entreat or in any way attempt to persuade another person to commit a particular felony and an individual makes an overt act to accomplish the intent of the solicitation is to be guilty of criminal solicitation.

Incidence

Criminal solicitation occurs globally, with law enforcement agencies in numerous countries reporting thousands of cases annually involving attempts to persuade or hire others to commit crimes. The proliferation of digital communication platforms has expanded the reach and anonymity of solicitors, making detection and prevention increasingly challenging. Incidents span a range of offenses, from drug trafficking and contract killings to cybercrimes, highlighting the persistent and adaptable nature of this problem across diverse legal systems.
In 2023, authorities in the United States arrested an individual in Florida for using encrypted messaging apps to solicit the murder of a business rival, illustrating the ongoing threat posed by criminal solicitation in the digital age.