North Carolina General Statutes 14-50.17. Soliciting; encouraging participation Current as of: 2023 | Check for updates | Other versions (a) It is unlawful for any person to cause, encourage, solicit, or coerce a person 16 years of age or older to participate in criminal gang activity. (b) A violation of this section is a Class H felony. (2008-214, s. 3; 2017-194, s. 7.)