Morristown NJ Prostitution ChargesThe Super Bowl has come to New Jersey, and is it bringing more than just football fans to the Tri-state area. A massive increase in the number of prostitutes descending on New Jersey has resulted in a statewide increase in awareness of the sex trafficking industry.

Some have described the Super Bowl as “the largest human trafficking venue on the planet.”

According to authorities located in the states in which the past three Super Bowls were held, four total arrests involving human trafficking were made in connection with the Super Bowl. Additionally, in both New Orleans and Indianapolis, law enforcement officials noted a multitude of prostitution-related charges.

In anticipation of the upcoming Super Bowl, the NJ Attorney General’s Office issued the following statement:

“The data we have seen – as well as common sense and experience – tells us that large events that draw wealthy tourists from around the globe tend also to draw increased demand for prostitution. That demand is particularly apparent on the Internet, and we have already begun to see increased volume of prostitution and ‘escort’ ads in connection with the upcoming Super Bowl.”

An investigation conducted by the Asbury Park Press found that one of the most often-accessed escort service websites on the Internet showed a massive increase in listings in North and Central Jersey during the past month. This notable spike was also observed in Indianapolis during Super Bowl 2012, where police reported a comparable Internet advertisement boom prior to the big game.

In terms of legal definitions, there is a significant distinction between prostitution and sex trafficking because prostitution does not necessarily involve the coercion of the individual engaging in commercial sex. Prostitution offenses in New Jersey are governed under N.J.S.A. 2C:34-1, which classifies prostitution as a second degree felony, a third degree felony, or a disorderly persons offense.

Typically, prostitution is categorized as a disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to six months in the county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a permanent charge on one’s criminal record. However, charges for promoting prostitution are often considered third degree offenses, which are punishable by as many as five years in NJ State Prison.

To learn more, read the following article: “Is Sex Trafficking at the Super Bowl a Myth?”

 

If you are facing sex crime charges in New Jersey, contact Morristown NJ criminal defense attorney Alissa D. Hascup for a free consultation about your case.