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A large specific deterrent effect of arrest for patronizing a prostitute
Devon D Brewer1, John J Potterat, Stephen Q Muth
1Interdisciplinary Scientific Research, Seattle, Washington, United States of America. interscientific@yahoo.com
Plos One
|December 22, 2006
Summary
Arrest significantly deters clients from soliciting prostitutes, reducing rearrest by 70%. This finding contrasts with prior research, suggesting targeted enforcement can decrease patronizing behavior.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Public Health
- Law Enforcement
Background:
- Previous studies indicate arrest does not consistently deter reoffending.
- The impact of arrest on specific criminal behaviors remains an area of investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the specific deterrent effect of arrest for patronizing street prostitutes.
- To compare reoffending rates between clients detected via public health surveillance and police arrest.
Main Methods:
- A comparative analysis was conducted in Colorado Springs.
- Clients were categorized based on initial detection method: public health surveillance versus police arrest.
- Demographic and behavioral similarities between groups were assessed.
Main Results:
- Arrest reduced the likelihood of subsequent arrest by approximately 70% for clients patronizing street prostitutes.
- Clients detected via public health surveillance had a higher rearrest rate compared to those initially detected by police.
- Evidence suggests arrest does not displace patronizing behavior to other areas.
Conclusions:
- Apprehending clients who patronize street prostitutes substantially decreases their offending behavior.
- Targeted law enforcement strategies focusing on clients may be effective in reducing sex work.
- Findings challenge the generalizability of prior research on the deterrent effect of arrest.
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