On Thursday February 10, 2011, Mr. Gilliland and eight other individuals were arrested in a child prostitution sting operation conducted by undercover law enforcement agents in Arizona.  Mr. Gilliand is alleged to have engaged in online solicitation of a minor female who had identified herself as a minor. Mr. Gilliand has been charged with felony child prostitution.

Just like the popular TV show “To Catch a Predator” Mr. Gilliand allegedly arranged for an in-person meeting with a minor female he knew to be underage, for the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor.  To make matters even worse, it is alleged that he offered to pay the minor for sexual intercourse.  Mr. Gilliand is the founder of Wild Oats Market, which was bought by Whole Foods in 2007.  He was also the former CEO of Sunflower Farmers Market from which he recently resigned.

Although Gilliand told the company "…he believes he is not guilty of the charges brought against him, and that he expects to be exonerated" as a sex crimes defense attorney in Los Angeles, I can hypothesize that Mr. Gilliand will be fighting like hell to safe his life and his reputation.

In California, Mr. Gilliand would face potential charges of attempted lewd act with a minor (otherwise known as attempted child molestation) which would carry mandatory sex registration for life and up to 8 years in state prison for each charge.

If you, or a loved one, has been accused of a sex crime, then call the Law Offices of Karen L. Goldstein today for a free, confidential consultation and speak with an experienced and aggressive sex crimes defense attorney: (888) 445-6313.