There are some very attractive entertainers that I would like to see which work thru an agency.  

I am a little apprehensive to work with an agency as I question to what extent it is riskier from the hobbyist's perspective to do so as opposed to working with independent ladies.

Perhaps I am a little paranoid and/or nieve, but it would seem that if the agency or ANY of its ladies gets pinched, ALL of its clients could potentially be fair game for being exposed.

Anyone have any thoughts?

do a search on it.  There are lots of opinions and reasons for visiting each type of provider.

Swim

I will give you my two cents but you can get more opinions by doing a search.

If you are new to the hobby then you might find seeing an independent a bit difficult without references. An agency usually only requires work info and personal ID which will be a one time thing once you have seen a girl through them.

The key is finding an agency with a proven track record, one that has providers with good reviews. Some out there are legit and others are not, but then again that can be said for independents.

You would only have to worry about being "exposed" if you were someone the media might be interested in. I have never heard of LE going after people on lists and unless your name would get the attention of the media you would have little risk of any trouble.