Many people confuse the act of pimping with pandering. While they have similar roots – introducing an individual into a life of prostitution – they are different acts that fall under two different penal codes. Under California Penal Code 266(i), you could be found guilty of pandering if you encourage or persuade a person to engage in prostitution. In addition, you need not receive monetary compensation like a pimp to be found guilty. But, like pimping, if you are convicted of pandering you could spend some years in state prison and potentially be registered as a sex offender if the victim was under the age of 16.