Our Ann Arbor Criminal Defense Attorneys for Internet Stings

Excellence in Michigan Internet / Computer Crimes Defense

If a misunderstanding, case of mistaken identity, or computer malfunction places a client in the middle of a police Internet sting operation, it could result in charges of criminal sexual conduct or Internet solicitation of a minor. In these cases, it is imperative to hire a law firm that protects your rights. Geherin Law Group's criminal defense attorney in Ann Arbor is dedicated to excellence in criminal defense in Washtenaw County and throughout Southeast Michigan. We will advocate for you immediately.

For over 25+ years, attorneys of GLG have aggressively safeguarded the interests of their clients and helped avoid harsh punishments such as jail, fines, a criminal record and sex offender registration.

Our preparation of each case is thorough. Our investigation of all of the client's charges is exhaustive. Our commitment to each client's freedom is total.

Some people may have been lured into responding to a fake advertisement on the Internet. Police could have been posing as minors in web chat rooms. Someone with a vendetta against one person may be seeking to blackmail another. Many things can go wrong with criminal charges based on use of computers.

We have our own state-of-the-art high-tech methods for analyzing any computer evidence used against our clients. We have a recognized reputation for results in thousands of cases heard in Michigan courts.

Contact GLG immediately if you have been unfairly implicated in a law enforcement Internet sting operation.

Michigan Internet-based Crimes

Our Ann Arbor lawyers are here for those facing accusations including:

• Criminal sexual conduct
• Solicitation of a minor
• Sexting
• Cyberstalking

Don't fall victim to a police Internet decoy operation. If a computer or "friend" plays a betrayal game, fight back by hiring GLG for quality representation and attentive personal service in all criminal cases.

How Internet Sting Operations Work

Law enforcement agencies often set up Internet sting operations when officers pose as minors or vulnerable individuals on chat sites, dating apps, or social media platforms. These is designed to catch people allegedly seeking illegal interactions. However, this can also result in wrongful arrests based on entrapment, miscommunication, or misidentification.

Some individuals are ensnared without criminal intent—responding out of curiosity, confusion, or after being manipulated by the supposed victim or the undercover officer. Despite no physical meeting or illegal act taking place, law enforcement may still file serious charges. 

We scrutinize every aspect of the sting, including:

• Whether your rights were violated
• Whether there was entrapment
• Whether the officers followed proper protocols
• Whether digital evidence was collected legally and accurately

Understanding the Charges

Internet sting-related crimes often fall under complex statutes, and the penalties can be extremely severe. Common charges include:

Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC)

CSC charges related to Internet stings usually involve accusations of attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor. Even an online conversation—without any physical interaction—can lead to charges if prosecutors believe intent was present.

Solicitation of a Minor

This charge typically arises when law enforcement believes someone attempted to persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity. Even if the "minor" was actually a police officer, a person can still be prosecuted if prosecutors believe there was intent.

Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM) Possession

If law enforcement searches a suspect's computer or phone and finds images or videos they claim are illicit, they may file possession or distribution charges—even if the files were unknowingly downloaded or automatically cached.

Sexting and Inappropriate Messaging

Adults who send messages or images to someone they believe is underage can face charges, even if they never met in person or the exchange was initiated by the other party.

The Serious Consequences of a Conviction

A conviction related to an Internet sting can have lifelong consequences, for example:

• Mandatory sex offender registration, sometimes for life
• Prison sentences, often measured in decades
• Severe reputational damage, including lost employment and housing opportunities
• Personal and familial shame and isolation
• Civil commitment proceedings, in some extreme cases

Even an accusation—without a conviction—can disrupt or destroy your career, family, or personal life. The stigma alone is difficult to overcome, and you may find yourself cut off from support systems.

That’s why it’s so critical to secure experienced, aggressive defense from the moment you’re accused.

Our Investigative Advantage: Technology Meets Legal Strategy

If your case involves digital evidence, understanding the underlying technology is essential. We utilize cutting-edge forensic tools and trusted digital experts to examine:

• Chat logs and timestamps
• Metadata from phones or computers
• IP addresses and location data
• Deleted files and recovery attempts
• App or browser behavior that may show accidental or non-criminal activity

We challenge the prosecution’s assumptions and often discover flawed investigations, evidence handling errors, or proof of entrapment.

What is Entrapment?

Entrapment is a legal defense that occurs when a law enforcement officer induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. It’s not entrapment if the officer simply provides an opportunity to commit a crime. However, it is entrapment if the officer uses coercion, harassment, or deception to provoke illegal action that wouldn’t have occurred otherwise.

Our attorneys explore this defense in detail in every Internet sting case. We analyze chat transcripts, messages, and the behavior of the officers involved to determine if entrapment occurred.

Here’s What Our Clients Are Saying

“It was a great pleasure having Mr Geherin as my hired attorney. He was very knowledgeable in all inquiries I had and helped me out every step of the way. I felt comfortable and confident in Dans work and that paid off for me in the end.”

Matthew, Avvo Review

“Dan and his team are very friendly and approachable. They were honest with my case, and extremely professional in navigating the process that ultimately led to my ideal outcome. Thank you guys for your strength and counsel in what was easily the most frightening period of my life.”

William, Avvo Review 

“Mr. Geherin came highly recommended and I am fortunate to have had him represent me in a recent case. He always responded quickly to all of my communication, was clear, patient, and thorough, and put me at ease throughout the process. I absolutely would hire hm again, as well as give him my recommendation to anyone needing legal counsel.”

Susan, Avvo Review

Compassionate Representation for Every Client

We believe everyone deserves a defense rooted in dignity, fairness, and aggressive legal strategy. Whether you're a first-time offender or facing multiple charges, our team approaches each case with the same unwavering commitment to justice. We don’t judge—we fight, and we do so with the experience, resources, and dedication that have earned us the trust of clients across Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Can I be charged even if I never met the person in real life?

Yes. In Michigan, prosecutors may charge individuals based on online communications if they believe there was intent to commit a crime.

What if the person I was chatting with lied about their age?

Even if someone lied about being 18, you can still face criminal charges if they were actually a minor—or a police decoy. This can be a powerful element of your defense.

Is it legal for police to pose as minors online?

Yes, law enforcement is legally allowed to conduct undercover stings. But if their actions crossed a line into entrapment or violated your constitutional rights, the charges could be challenged or dismissed.

Speak With an Experienced Defense Attorney Today

Being charged in connection with an Internet sting is frightening, confusing, and potentially life-shattering. But you don’t have to face it alone. We provide aggressive, experienced legal defense to protect your rights and your future. We’re a trusted name in criminal defense across Southeast Michigan.

Contact GLG immediately if you have been arrested.

You can reach our lawyers 24 hours a day by e-mail or phone. Our law offices are conveniently located just off I-94 near Briarwood Mall, and we represent clients in all courts and counties in Southeastern Michigan.