N.Y. Penal Law Section 230.02
Patronizing a person for prostitution

  • definitions

1.

A person patronizes a person for prostitution when:

(a)

Pursuant to a prior understanding, he or she pays a fee to another person as compensation for such person or a third person having engaged in sexual conduct with him or her; or

(b)

He or she pays or agrees to pay a fee to another person pursuant to an understanding that in return therefor such person or a third person will engage in sexual conduct with him or her; or

(c)

He or she solicits or requests another person to engage in sexual conduct with him or her in return for a fee.

2.

As used in this article, “person who is patronized” means the person with whom the defendant engaged in sexual conduct or was to have engaged in sexual conduct pursuant to the understanding, or the person who was solicited or requested by the defendant to engage in sexual conduct.

Source: Section 230.02 — Patronizing a person for prostitution; definitions, https://www.­nysenate.­gov/legislation/laws/PEN/230.­02 (updated Jan. 22, 2016; accessed Oct. 18, 2025).

Green check means up to date. Up to date

Verified:
Oct. 18, 2025

Last modified:
Jan. 22, 2016

§ 230.02. Patronizing a person for prostitution's source at nysenate​.gov

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