Foley Could Face Charges in Some States

Even if former Rep. Mark Foley (news, bio, voting record) did not violate federal laws by exchanging sexually explicit Internet communications with underage boys, he still could find himself charged under state statutes.

Federal law generally requires a person to meet, or attempt to meet, a minor for sex before a crime has been committed. But in some states where the Florida Republican communicated with children, attempting to seduce a minor might be enough to bring charges.

Federal prosecutors investigating Foley are examining whether Florida authorities might be better positioned to seek charges against him, according to a senior Justice Department official who spoke Friday on condition of anonymity.

Foley resigned abruptly last week amid reports he exchanged sexually suggestive communications with teenage boys who worked as pages on Capitol Hill. Foley's attorney said Foley never engaged in sexual activity with a minor, but that may not matter in certain states.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061007/ap_on_go_co/foley_criminal_case_1