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50 arrested in DC for prostitution in last two weeks

D.C. police have engaged in a crackdown on prostitution in the District, arresting 50 men in the last two weeks on charges of soliciting a prostitute.
Prostitution

WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- D.C. police have engaged in a crackdown on prostitution in the District, arresting 50 men in the last two weeks on charges of soliciting a prostitute.

The arrests have happened throughout the District, including Logan Circle, where prostitution has historically been a problem. An Advisory Neighborhood Commission Commissioner for Logan Circle told WUSA9 prostitution is the most common complaint he receives from residents.

Logan Circle residents were happy to hear about the crackdown.

"Especially in the area of the Logan Circle, so right there in the circle, in the park area. We don't need that kind of stuff," Allyson Thompson, a Logan Circle resident said.

The commissioner also told WUSA9 that used condoms are often found on sidewalks and in alleys.

D.C. Councilman Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) recently told WUSA9 that prostitution is a stubborn problem that has to be combated.

"Prostitution is a regional business that thrives from Richmond to Montreal. It will go to the jurisdiction of least resistance. Right now, we are not putting up the resistance we once did," Evans said.

However, some Logan Circle residents say prostitution should be a lower priority for police.

"Since I've lived in this neighborhood, and it's a really good neighborhood, I've been mugged once, I've seen two shootings. I think those are things to focus on more than prostitution," James Quinn, a Logan Circle resident said.

As far as prostitution being a victimless crime, many exploitation and advocacy groups are quick to remind people about the human trafficking dynamic, women and men forced into the sex trade against their will.

Evans recently introduced a bill in the city council that would tow and impound the vehicle of anyone soliciting prostitution in that vehicle.

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