In the third Camden County Police prostitution operation conducted in the past month, officers arrested numerous alleged prostitutes, who were then given the option to enter a ministry program as a means by which to avoid criminal charges.
According to law enforcement officials, approximately twelve officers carried out the most recent operation on Friday, May 30th, using unmarked police vehicles. Following their arrests, the alleged prostitutes were taken to She Has a Name (SHAN) Ministries, as opposed to police headquarters for immediate processing. SHAN is a program founded by former crack cocaine addicts Bill and Brenda Antinore, which is designed to assist prostitutes in rehabilitation.
Those arrested who chose to enter the program were spared any legal action, while those who refused were issued summonses for loitering. All of those arrested could have been facing criminal charges for prostitution, which are codified under N.J.S.A. 2C:34-1. According to this statute, prostitution-related offenses can be classified as second or third degree crimes, or disorderly persons offenses, depending on the alleged activity involved in the particular case.
Although prostitution charges are generally considered disorderly persons offenses, which are punishable by a fine and a maximum sentence of 6 months to be served in the county jail, offenses involving the promotion of prostitution entail third degree charges. Further, prostitution offenses involving a minor are classified as second degree crimes, which can result in prison sentences ranging from 5 to 10 years.
Considering that those taken into police custody on Friday were able to avoid prostitution charges altogether, the approach of the Camden County Police Department is relatively lenient, with a focus on rehabilitation as opposed to punishment.
For more information pertaining to this case, access the following article: Camden prostitute sweep by police, ministry offers aid or a summons
