Can a Prostitute Press Charges Against a John?

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Question:

I am a prostitute in Washington, D.C. A trick not only didn’t pay me, but he stole my money and threatened me. He said that because I’m a prostitute, there’s nothing I can do about it? Is that true?

Answer:

No, that’s not even remotely true. While it is certainly the case that prostitution is a crime, and therefore if you come forward to the police you might face some liability yourself, the law has NEVER denied protection to a person simply because she has broken some other law. People who have violated the law still have rights, and cannot be preyed on by others with impunity.

Prostitution is a misdemeanor, and the potential penalties are comparatively minor; on the other hand, several of the actions your trick did are felonies—much more serious violations that could result in years in jail. He stands potentially liable for very serious criminal penalties.

You do not have to accept being victimized. There is nothing in the law says that a prostitute being threatened, let alone robbed, is acceptable or allowable. What this individual did to you was both morally wrong and illegal. You have the right to not be threatened, assaulted, or robbed, and anyone who does this to you belongs in jail.

You may wish to meet with an attorney first. An attorney can guide, advise, and represent you in how best to report this person and his crimes to the police while also protecting yourself. Good luck.

For more information:  Assault and threatening in D.C. law[ http://www.michie.com/dc/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-h.htm&cp=dccode]

                Threat of bodily harm in D.C.[http://www.michie.com/dc/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-h.htm&cp=dccode]

Robbery in D.C.[ http://www.michie.com/dc/lpext.dll?f=templates&fn=main-h.htm&cp=dccode]

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