Q: What is the new law about soliciting minors online in North Carolina?
A: The 2025 Public Safety Act made all instances of solicitation of minors by computer into more severe felonies, effective December 1, 2025. This change reflects the legislature’s increasing focus on online child exploitation.
What the Law Covers
North Carolina’s solicitation of minors by computer statute prohibits using a computer or electronic device to entice, solicit, or lure a minor (or a person the defendant believes to be a minor) to engage in sexual activity. The enhanced penalties apply to all forms of this offense.
How Cases Are Typically Built
Many solicitation cases originate from undercover law enforcement operations where officers pose as minors in chat rooms, social media platforms, or dating apps. Cases may also arise from tips by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) or from parents who discover concerning communications.
Federal Exposure
Online solicitation can also be charged federally under 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b), which carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in federal prison. Federal charges are common when the communication crosses state lines, which is almost always the case with internet-based offenses.
Defense Considerations
Defenses may include entrapment, challenging the identification of the defendant, and demonstrating that the defendant did not believe the other person was a minor. These are serious charges requiring experienced representation.
Related Practice Areas
North Carolina Criminal Defense | The Chetson Firm
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact The Chetson Firm at (919) 352-9411.