Sending a message to “Johns”
04/01/2009
Electronic billboards and tougher prosecution are two ways Minneapolis is getting tough on people who try to solicit prostitutes in the city. Clear Channel Communications is donating space on electronic billboards in the city to send a clear message to would-be "Johns." The billboards feature a blurred mug shot and a reminder that the City posts photos of people arrested for soliciting prostitutes on its website. The billboards also include a new website where the public can view those mug shots, www.johnspics.org.
Prostitution is not a victimless crime; it harms families and the entire community. And those who come into our city to look for a prostitute will now face public scrutiny and tougher penalties. The Minneapolis City Attorney's office recently changed its prosecution standards to get tougher on Johns. City attorneys now seek convictions on all those who solicit prostitutes in Minneapolis, including first-time offenders. Previously, Johns who were first-time offenders in Minneapolis would have to complete a restorative justice and education program as part of their probation to prevent a conviction from appearing on their record. Under the new plea standards, Johns will still have to complete a restorative justice and education program, but their criminal record will now include a conviction. Restorative justice programs work with criminals to understand the personal accountability of their crimes and how it impacts the community.
City Attorney Susan Segal says, "With our new, tougher plea bargaining standards, we want Johns to know there are real consequences for their actions...We want the word to get out that soliciting prostitution is not okay in our city, on our streets, or in our neighborhoods."