Prostitution on the Rise in San Diego After Decriminalizing Loitering

San Diego is experiencing an increase in prostitution after a California state law went into effect in January 2023 decriminalizing loitering with intent to engage in prostitution.

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Women standing outside cars in San Diego. One of the women appears to be twerking on a vehicle.  (Fox News Digital )

The law, known as Senate Bill 357, was passed to protect transgender women from harassment and arrest by police. However, some critics argue that the law has had the unintended consequence of making it easier for pimps and sex traffickers to operate.

In San Diego, prostitutes are now often seen standing outside stores, restaurants, and hotels in lingerie, soliciting customers. They are also said to be using the security lights of businesses to attract attention.

The increase in prostitution has had a negative impact on businesses and residents in the area. Business owners say that customers feel unsafe walking through the area and that they have had to increase security to protect their property. Residents say that they are worried about the safety of their children when they have to witness prostitution activities on the street.

 "Parents are having to explain to children why, at 7:30 in the morning, when they’re going to school, that there's two women in G-strings shaking their butts and showing their breasts and trying to stop vehicles."

The San Diego Police Department says that it is aware of the increase in prostitution and that it is working to address the problem. However, the department says that it is limited in what it can do because of the new law.

The future of prostitution in San Diego is uncertain. It is possible that the law will be repealed or amended in the future. However, it is also possible that prostitution will continue to increase, leading to more problems for businesses and residents in the area.

In addition to the concerns raised by businesses and residents, there are also concerns about the safety of sex workers themselves. Sex workers are often vulnerable to violence and exploitation, and the decriminalization of loitering may make them even more vulnerable.

It is important to note that there are different perspectives on the issue of prostitution. Some people believe that prostitution should be legalized and regulated in order to protect sex workers and reduce the stigma associated with sex work. Others believe that prostitution should be illegal because it is inherently exploitative and harmful.

The debate over prostitution is complex and there is no easy solution. However, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences of decriminalizing prostitution, both positive and negative.