What is Child Enticement in Wisconsin?

Child enticement is a serious criminal offense under Wisconsin law. Child Enticement charges not only carry severe criminal penalties but can also have long-lasting collateral consequences for your freedom, employment, personal relationships, and standing in the community for years to come.

Under Wisconsin Statute § 948.07, a person commits the crime of child enticement when they cause or attempt to cause a child under the age of 18 to go into any vehicle, building, room, or secluded place for the purpose of carrying out certain prohibited acts.

The prohibited acts include:

• Having sexual contact or intercourse with the child

• Causing the child to engage in prostitution

• Exposing intimate parts to the child

• Causing the child to expose intimate parts

• Recording the child engaging in sexually explicit conduct

• Causing bodily or mental harm

• Giving or selling controlled substances to the child

The elements and methods of proving Child Enticement can be complex and confusing.  While it is considered a single crime, there are many modes of commission, or ways the crime can be committed.  Having an attorney who not only can manage the facts but also understand the law is essential in challenging these cases. If you or a loved one is facing charges of Child Enticement, Nelson Defense Group can help.  We believe that everyone deserves to have their story heard, and we have the experience to help you challenge your case.

No, it is not required that the Enticement or the intended prohibited act be carried out to be convicted under the statutes. Importantly, it is the attempt or act of enticement itself that is punishable - a conviction is possible even if the enticement is not successful or the prohibited purpose behind the enticement is not carried out. Because only an attempt is required, there can be critical questions regarding how much one must do to have it be considered an attempt. When it comes to understanding and challenging these questions, an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is invaluable.

What are the penalties for Child Enticement charges in Wisconsin?

Child enticement is a serious felony in Wisconsin and carries possible penalties of a lengthy prison sentence, significant fines, supervision, and sex offender registration.   The criminal penalties are in addition to the collateral consequences which often accompany a conviction for a sex offense, loss of standing in the community, loss of employment, and relationships. 

Defending against child enticement charges usually involves a legal strategy that challenges the assumptions made by the state. This includes questioning whether the State can prove the required intent and questioning evidence purported to show that a person’s actions constituted “enticement.” The defense may also include contesting the age or identity of the alleged victim — especially in cases involving undercover law enforcement.

Because these cases frequently rely on intent and interpretation of actions, experienced criminal defense counsel is essential to challenge the case at every possible opportunity.

Choosing the right lawyer can significantly impact how your burglary case is resolved by providing excellent legal strategy, improving results, and supporting your wellbeing through the process.

Evaluating Experience
Seek attorneys who have successfully handled many cases involving burglary, theft, robbery, and other property crimes, as this specialized experience can be crucial for building a strong defense. Review their past case results, client testimonials, and professional reputation to ensure they have the skills and track record needed to represent you effectively.

Communication and Strategy
The best criminal defense attorney in Wisconsin will take time to clearly explain your legal options, map out the potential paths ahead, and craft a defense strategy that's specifically tailored to the unique aspects of your burglary case.

A child enticement charge can be life-altering. Beyond the immediate risk of prison time and fines, the long-term consequences — especially sex offender registration — can affect your employment, housing, and personal freedom for years.

At Nelson Defense Group, we know that it is important for your story to be heard and understood. We have handled many Child Enticement cases, and we know that every situation is unique. We will get to know you and your circumstances to help you build the best defense possible.

Our team supports clients facing charges throughout Wisconsin, from St. Croix County to Eau Claire, Lacrosse, and more. If you or a loved one faces a child enticement accusation in Wisconsin, it is crucial to retain an attorney with deep experience in defending against serious felony and sex crime charges. At Nelson Defense Group, our entire team is available to build the best defense possible for you. 

Written by Nelson Defense Group Attorney Liesl Nelson