Is prostitution legal in Dixon?
No, prostitution is illegal throughout Dixon and Solano County. California Penal Code 647(b) criminalizes engaging in or soliciting sex work. First offenses may result in misdemeanor charges, 6+ months in jail, and $1,000+ fines. Unlike Nevada counties, California prohibits brothels statewide.
Dixon Police conduct regular sting operations along I-80 exit zones and East A Street, where transient activity concentrates. Undercover officers target both solicitors and sex workers. Repeat offenders face felony charges under California’s “John School” laws, requiring mandatory counseling and registration. Recent enforcement data shows 37 arrests in 2023, with 83% involving out-of-town clients.
What health risks do sex workers face in Dixon?
Street-based workers experience disproportionate violence and disease. Solano County Health reports 42% of local sex workers test positive for STIs annually, triple the county average. Needle-sharing among substance-dependent workers contributes to Dixon’s opioid crisis.
Common dangers include:
- Assault rates: 68% report physical violence according to regional crisis center data
- STI exposure: Limited clinic access increases HIV/chlamydia risks
- Addiction cycles: 55% use methamphetamines daily per public health surveys
Harm reduction nonprofits like RAIN distribute emergency kits containing naloxone, condoms, and attack whistles near known solicitation zones.
How can someone leave prostitution in Dixon?
Solano County offers diversion programs instead of incarceration. The HEART Court (Human Exploitation and Rescue Team) provides:
- 180-day residential rehab with trauma therapy
- Vocational training partnerships with Solano Community College
- Transitional housing at Dixon’s Sunrise Village shelter
To qualify, individuals must self-report through the District Attorney’s office or nonprofits like 3Strands Global. Success rates average 70% when combined with ongoing case management. The county’s 24/7 exit hotline (888-539-2373) received 142 calls last year.
What support exists for former sex workers?
Post-exit services include 12 months of subsidized childcare, GED programs, and record expungement assistance. The “New Beginnings” initiative partners with 40+ Dixon employers for job placements.
Is human trafficking occurring in Dixon?
Yes, trafficking intersects with local prostitution. California’s DOJ identifies I-80 as a major trafficking corridor, with Dixon’s truck stops being recruitment hotspots. Indicators include:
- Minors appearing at rest areas with older “handlers”
- Motels reporting hourly room rentals
- Social media ads using Dixon location tags
In 2023, Solano County task forces rescued 8 trafficking victims during prostitution stings. Report suspicious activity to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888) or Dixon PD’s anonymous tip line.
How does prostitution impact Dixon’s community?
Residents report decreased safety in commercial districts. Police data shows secondary effects:
| Issue | % Increase | Common Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Car break-ins | 22% | Motel 6 parking lots |
| Public drug use | 41% | North First Street parks |
| Discarded needles | 67% | Vacant lots near Pardi Market |
Neighborhood watch groups have expanded patrols near schools after incidents of condoms/syringes found on playgrounds. Business owners attribute 15-30% revenue declines in areas with visible solicitation.
How can residents report prostitution activity?
Use Dixon PD’s non-emergency line (707-678-7080) or the See Something app for anonymous reporting. Document license plates, descriptions, and exact locations without confrontation. Police prioritize areas within 1,000 feet of schools, resulting in enhanced penalties.
What resources combat prostitution in Dixon?
Multi-agency approaches include:
- Dixon Family Services: Offers counseling for at-risk youth
- Solano County Health: Provides free STI testing Mondays & Thursdays
- Project Hope: Court-approved “john school” reducing recidivism by 60%
Faith-based groups like Dixon United Methodist run outreach vans distributing resources. City council allocated $200,000 in 2024 for improved street lighting and surveillance cameras in high-activity zones.