Reader: Prostitution is Illegal Because the Government Doesn't Profit From It

Our post about the Colorado Springs Police Department Facebooking photos of convicted johns asked readers for their opinions about the tactic, as well as whether police departments should be spending time and resources fighting what some people consider to be a victimless crime. In response, we received some passionate posts on...

By Michael Roberts

April 8, 2015

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Our post about the Colorado Springs Police Department Facebooking photos of convicted johns asked readers for their opinions about the tactic, as well as whether police departments should be spending time and resources fighting what some people consider to be a victimless crime.

In response, we received some passionate posts on a wide variety of related topics, ranging from human trafficking and the exploitation of those who are part of the trade (not always willingly).

Also debated: the effectiveness (or not) of public shaming.

As for this reader, he thinks he knows why police departments continue to make prostitution-related enforcement a priority.

Ron Gowins writes:

Sex between consenting adults is illegal if money is exchanged?! Why is that again?! Oh, because the government doesn't profit from it.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts. For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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