They could do that, but if they are recorded threatening and extorting a witness into providing "evidence", probably the first ones going to jail would be themselves
No, they do that all the time now. Very common in trafficking cases to get low level dealers to inform on their suppliers.
Do not cooperate and they charge you with everything.
Rat your buddies out and they stay the charge and they may even pay you.
If the cops pick a vulnerable girl she will break. They are smart and know who to go after. Everyone has a weakness.
Section 286.1 (1) Everyone who, in any place, obtains for consideration, or communicates with anyone for the purpose of obtaining for consideration, the sexual services of a person, is guilty
Communicating is a crime. No need to complete a transaction.