Patronizing and Prostitution

Abstract

Prostitution is thought to be the world's oldest profession and remains a widespread illicit industry. Many reasons may lead women into prostitution, from experiencing childhood trauma to being sexually trafficked. Those who patronize prostitutes are typically driven by sexual desires and encompass the entire range of demographics. Living on the fringes of society, prostitutes can suffer from physical and mental trauma and generally do not trust law enforcement enough to report the crimes. Undercover operations can be completed by law enforcement agencies to crack down on prostitutes and those patronizing prostitutes, though this has become more challenging with prostitution being not just at the street level but also on the Internet. A greater focus has been placed on prostitution enforcement and identification of prostitutes with concerns of sex trafficking victims being forced into the life. Diversion programs are present in some jurisdictions for both prostitutes and those who patronize prostitutes in hopes of deterring future illicit behavior. Prostitution is only legal in small counties in Nevada, though there are suggestions to decriminalize and legitimize the profession to reduce further victimization.