The City Council voted unanimously to require licensing of escorts, escort services and runners drivers at its regular meeting Monday, Feb. Lakewood police fully support the measure, which was first discussed in a study session Dec.
Police report that prostitutes posing as escorts know what phrases not to use when talking to a client who might be an undercover officer, but now the lack of an escort license will be grounds for arrest.
An increase in acts of prostitution in Lakewood is attributed to Web sites that offer the company of women for money, but are ambiguous in details, police said. Steve Davis, spokesman for the Lakewood police, said 26 suspects were arrested in prostitution stings conducted Jan.
Individuals seeking a license have to register with the city clerk for a permit and must have a clean criminal record. Anyone who has been convicted of prostitution in the past will not be eligible for a license. Those convicted of theft or fraud will have their application reviewed by city officials to determine eligibility.
Those granted a license will be fingerprinted and photographed, both of which will appear on the license. Although runners drivers for the escorts are required to be licensed, all taxi, rental car and limousine companies will not be affected by the law.
