NCJ Number
192720
Date Published
November 1999
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This report provides an overview of the dangers of juvenile prostitution, the sex industry in Minnesota, and efforts to end juvenile prostitution; recommendations are offered for countering the problem.
Abstract
A section on "The Dangers of Juvenile Prostitution" focuses on false choices and violence against juvenile prostitutes, the age youth become involved in prostitution, and the background of a juvenile involved in prostitution. This section notes that the vast majority of youth involved in prostitution have been thrown out of their homes, run away from abusive relationships, or have even been sold into a life of prostitution by family members. These children and teens often live on the street with little education, skills, or money. They are forced into prostitution because it appears to be one of the few avenues for survival. Existing studies suggest that the average age of entry into prostitution is between 13 and 17 years old. A recent Oregon study of women who eventually escaped a life of prostitution found that at least 84 percent were victims of aggravated assault, 49 percent were kidnapped, and 53 percent were victims of sexual torture. The second section of this report addresses the sex industry in Minnesota and worldwide. The topics examined are prostitution, escort services, and strip clubs in Minnesota; the sex circuit; the involvement of gangs with juvenile prostitution; and the role of the Internet in promoting juvenile prostitution. The third section reviews past and current efforts to end prostitution. The efforts described encompass police intervention and prostitution arrests; current Federal programs; current State programs and the lack of emergency, transitional, and long-term housing; and existing gaps in criminal law. The report concludes with a section on recommendations. The recommendations pertain to an increase in the penalty for patrons and promoters of prostitution; an extension of prosecutorial authority; an increase in civil enforcement; an increase in funding for law enforcement efforts to counter juvenile prostitution; the establishment of a statewide integrated criminal justice information system; and an increase in the availability of emergency and transitional housing. Extensive tables and appended resource list