Should more states legalize prostitution?

Decriminalization hasn't exactly worked well with homeless populations

In his book, “Lost Souls: The Unsolved American Mystery of the Gilgo Beach Serial Killer Murders,” Robert Kolker writes about the lives of young prostitutes believed to be victims of a Long Island Serial killer.

The book was published before authorities arrested Rex Heuermann, a Long Island contractor charged in three of those Long Island murders. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty.

Kolker’s work is something elected officials should read as more states consider legalizing or decriminalizing prostitution.

Kolker focuses on the changes wrought by Craiglist, which offered a “modern age of prostitution in which clients are lured with the simple tap of a computer keyboard rather than the exhausting, demeaning ritual of walking the streets. The method is easier, seductively so, almost like an ATM – post an ad, and the phone rings seconds later – but also deceptive about its dangers.”

When they first were lured into the sex trade, some of the “lost girls” felt a rush of power that came with the cash, the flashy limos, and attention lavished on them by men who used them.

Later came the downward slide, addiction to hard drugs and degradation.

Brothels have been legal in most Nevada counties for decades. In October, Maine will become the first U.S. state to partially decriminalize prostitution – for prostitutes, but not their pimps or clients. New York Democrats have entertained legislation to decriminalize prostitution in the Empire State as well.

There’s much to be said for allowing communities to determine how they want to address prostitution to how laws work in different areas. Be it noted, when governments open doors for certain businesses, you’re likely to see more of that trade.

And there is something to be said for directing law enforcement to go after the users, not the victims. Warning: Blue cities that have eased up on drug laws aren’t necessarily better off for that decision.

Thoughts? Feel free to share?