Which situation allows for a warrantless arrest regarding sexual conduct with a minor?

In criminal law, warrantless arrests can occur under specific circumstances, particularly when there is probable cause regarding criminal activity. In the context of sexual conduct with a minor, one key scenario involves the actual agreement to engage in illegal conduct.

In the selected situation, the customer agreeing to pay for conduct with a child establishes a clear intent to commit a crime. This agreement can be seen as an indication of the customer’s knowledge of the criminal nature of the transaction and their decision to proceed with it. Law enforcement officers can view this as sufficient evidence of a crime in progress, granting them the necessary probable cause to conduct a warrantless arrest.

This principle is particularly relevant in sexual conduct cases involving minors where the law seeks to prevent exploitation. The immediacy of the agreement can be critical in safeguarding vulnerable individuals from potential harm, and it embodies the essence of protecting minors from predatory behavior. Thus, when there is a direct involvement and intent to engage in illegal sexual conduct with a minor, the law typically allows for a prompt response by law enforcement without the requirement of a warrant.