Six people, including two university professors with ties to New Mexico, were arrested this week in connection with an online prostitution ring called "Southwest Connections." The sight was designed to allow high-profile clients arrange discreet encounters in a secure environment. It differed from sites like Craigslist or Backpage because it was specifically organized to arrange liaisons between client and services providers, and the content was monitored by the organizer to facilitate those connections.
The website was operated primarily out of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, but also contained postings from Denver and Phoenix. The site had 1,400 members, including 200 prostitutes and 1200 clients and used tiered membership levels, allowing more access for more trusted clients. The arrests this week were made on state charges, but the local authorities are working closely with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). There is no word on whether the men will be charged with any federal offenses for prostitution-related or Internet crimes.
In other communities, it is clear that prostitution is prohibited and therefore people take steps to protect themselves from arrest. But, in Nevada - with billboards, handbills, magazines, yellow pages ads and websites all offering "sexy girls direct to your room" - most people assume that prostitution is legal. However, prostitution is not legal in Las Vegas. In fact, Las Vegas has very strict laws making it illegal to solicit, offer or agree to commit an act of prostitution.
A prostitution arrest can be personally and professionally damaging, not to mention embarrassing. If you or someone you know has been arrested for a prostitution related offense, it is important that you contact a Las Vegas Prostitution Attorney immediately. A Las Vegas Prostitution Attorney can assist you in analyzing the facts of your case and identifying applicable defenses. Whether your goal is a quick and discreet resolution of the charge, or the most aggressive litigation strategy possible, the Las Vegas Prostitution Lawyer can also assist you in reaching your litigation goal.