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 is prosecuted in many jurisdictions, but its incidence is difficult to quantify due to its covert nature. In the United States, the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program does not separately track solicitation cases, but state-level data indicate thousands of charges annually, particularly related to drug offenses and solicitation to commit murder. Online platforms have increased the complexity and reach of solicitation crimes globally.
In 2015, in Houston, Texas, a woman was convicted of criminal solicitation after attempting to hire a hitman—who was actually an undercover police officer—to murder her ex-husband. The case highlighted law enforcement’s use of sting operations to detect solicitation.

Claim

Criminal solicitation is a critical issue that undermines the very fabric of society. It involves encouraging or persuading others to commit crimes, perpetuating a cycle of violence and lawlessness. This insidious act not only endangers individuals but also erodes community trust and safety. Addressing criminal solicitation is essential to deter crime, protect vulnerable populations, and uphold justice. We must prioritize awareness and enforcement to combat this pervasive threat and foster a safer, more secure society for all.

Counter-claim

Criminal solicitation is often overstated as a significant issue, diverting attention from more pressing societal problems. The act of soliciting someone to commit a crime rarely results in actual harm and often involves mere discussions or intentions. Focusing on this minor offense distracts law enforcement and resources from tackling serious crimes that genuinely threaten public safety. Instead of criminalizing conversations, we should prioritize addressing real issues that impact our communities and well-being.