17-06 - Minors Engaged in Commercial Sex Acts

MINORS ENGAGED IN COMMERCIAL SEX ACTS

The “No Such Thing” is a campaign to ensure commercially sexually exploited children are treated as victims and has been endorsed by the Sheriff and Board of Supervisors. 

The State Legislature has also passed Senate Bill 1322 which revised Penal Code sections 647 and 653.22 to align with the “No Such Thing” campaign.

Penal Code section 647(b)(5) states that Penal Code sections 647(b)(1) through 647(b)(4) (prostitution) does not apply to a child under 18 years of age.

Penal Code section 653.22(a)(2) states that Penal Code section (653.22(a)(1) (loitering for prostitution) does not apply to a child under 18 years of age.

If someone under the age of 18 is encountered by deputies and the person is suspected to be a commercially sexually exploited child, the child should be detained and Human Trafficking Bureau (HTB) notified.  The HTB’s First Responder Protocol will be activated.  When the HTB’s First Responder Protocol is activated, a representative from the Department of Children and Family Services and a service provider will respond along with HTB personnel to care for the minor and arrange housing placement.

To notify HTB during regular business hours, please call (323) 526-5156.  After-hour notifications should be directed to HTB through Sheriff’s Information Bureau at      (213) 229-1700.  

Information regarding the content of this newsletter may be directed to the Human Trafficking Bureau at (323) 526-5156, or Field Operations Support Services at (323) 890-5411 or foss@lasd.org.

References:

Senate Bill 1322

Penal Code section 647

Penal Code section 653.22