What Are Indiana’s Prostitution Laws in West Lafayette?

Prostitution is illegal statewide under Indiana Code 35-45-4-2. Both offering and purchasing sexual services are felony offenses in West Lafayette, punishable by up to 2.5 years imprisonment and $10,000 fines. Related activities like solicitation, pimping, and operating brothels carry enhanced penalties.

How Does Law Enforcement Handle Prostitution Cases?

West Lafayette Police Department conducts targeted operations near campus areas and transportation hubs. First-time offenders may enter diversion programs like Tippecanoe County’s Prostitution Offender Program, which mandates counseling instead of jail time for qualifying individuals.

What Are the Legal Defenses Against Prostitution Charges?

Common defenses include entrapment claims, lack of evidence proving exchange of money, or mistaken identity. However, undercover operations use body cameras and marked bills, making successful defenses rare without experienced legal representation.

What Health Risks Exist in Underground Sex Work?

Unregulated sex work in West Lafayette correlates with elevated STI transmission rates. Tippecanoe County reports 2x higher chlamydia incidence than state averages, with limited testing access increasing community health risks.

How Does Substance Use Intersect With Sex Work?

Over 60% of arrested individuals locally test positive for opioids or methamphetamines according to county health data. The Lafayette Crisis Center connects participants with addiction treatment through their STAR program.

What Support Exits for Those Wanting to Leave Sex Work?

Lafayette’s YWCA offers the HOPE Initiative providing housing assistance, vocational training, and trauma counseling. Purdue University’s Nursing School runs a street outreach program distributing harm-reduction kits and healthcare referrals.

Are There Safe Reporting Options for Exploitation?

Indiana’s Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888) allows anonymous reporting. The Tippecanoe County Prosecutor has a dedicated victim advocate ensuring witness protection in trafficking cases.

How Does Student Population Impact Local Sex Trade?

Purdue’s 50,000+ students create transient demand. Campus police monitor online solicitation platforms and collaborate with West Lafayette PD on “john schools” – educational programs for clients arrested near university property.

What Campus Resources Address Student Involvement?

Purdue’s CAPS counseling center offers confidential support for students involved in survival sex work. The university’s legal clinic provides free representation for students facing solicitation charges.

How Can Community Members Help Responsibly?

Support organizations like Lafayette Transitional Housing Center instead of direct intervention. Report suspicious activity through non-emergency lines (765-775-5200) rather than confronting individuals. Volunteer with certified programs like the Mental Health America Outreach.

What Are Effective Prevention Strategies?

Purdue’s Sociology Department partners with local schools on evidence-based prevention curricula. Tippecanoe County funds “exit ramp” programs combining GED support and childcare subsidies to address root causes.

What Data Exists About West Lafayette’s Sex Trade?

2023 police reports show 87 prostitution-related arrests, with 70% involving online solicitation platforms. County health department data indicates 40% of arrested individuals had prior homelessness records.