Would somebody know if a LE would set up a sting operation with a typical provider’s ad including a nude picture which is very explicit that the provider is offering sex for money?

If they can and if you respond to such an ad, make an appointment without discussing anything about sex for money, show up on their in-call location, do you think LE would have established your intent and can arrest you?

Board members with legal mind, please help!

and arrests followed.

Now, as far as beating it in court, there may be juries and even judges swayed by the seeming unfairness of it all, but LE really doesn't care about that.  The vast majority of arrests are settled by plea bargains, often with a minumal fine and/or continuances  without a finding.

They know that just the publicity of such a case with the attendent embarrassment of the arrestee not to mention all the legal cost and problems created with home and work will put a chill on the hobbying world, which is what they are really about.

(still not a lawyer)

Most legitimate providers don't use explicit language but instead acronyms like "GFE" which is not sexually explicit.

What was the explicit language used?

To answer ur 2nd Q, yes they can arrest you when you show up and your intent would have to be established at a preliminary hearing.  Would you want to go through all that?

Leave this one alone, stay away.

Subscribe to TER/VIP and look there, its a hell of a lot safer (and more fun).

Good luck and play safe.

GT

LE can do pretty much anything they like.  But honestly, they seldom target clients except for stupid Johns attempting to solicit street girls.  
It's much easier to "crack down" by getting a hotel room and calling CL girls to walk into the trap.  Quick, easy, no work for them.  Makes headlines so they get the do gooders off their back.  In those cases, they waited until money for sex was discussed before springing the trap. {Was done near here not long ago.}  
It really isn't necessary for a lady to be so explicit...  could be she's new.  Still there are a lot of subtile processes that quality ladies use to stay safe & I'd stay away from anyone...  new or not...  that was not careful.  
I'm sure any of the ladies would tell you that the right way to do what we do is discretely.  The issue isn't a "sting" per say but LE showing up in response to a complaint from a neighbor.

I e-mailed a lady I knew who's ad led anyone right to the suburban motel.  NO hotel owner can withstand the complaits of neighbors (even though they like the added rentals).  She promptly fixed the ad.  
skb

LE conducts stings to bust "johns" all the time. Most of them have revolved around explicit Craig's List ads just as the OP referred to.

To answer the OP's question. Yes, Undoubtably yes, LE can and will arrest you under circumstances that you describe. Their ability to get a conviction is arguable, but that was not your question.

End of message.