Comment of the Day

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 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.
KEEP WESTWORD FREE... Since we started Westword, it has been defined as the free, independent voice of Denver, and we'd like to keep it that way. With local media under siege, it's more important than ever for us to rally support behind funding our local journalism. You can help by participating in our "I Support" program, allowing us to keep offering readers access to our incisive coverage of local news, food and culture with no paywalls.
Michael Roberts has written for Westword since October 1990, serving stints as music editor and media columnist. He currently covers everything from breaking news and politics to sports and stories that defy categorization.
Contact: Michael Roberts

Latest Stories