Inaugural Prostitution

(Washington, D.C.) District of Columbia streets are being posted with anti-prostitution signs for the inauguration of Barack Obama. The signs display "Warning, Prostitution Free Zone."

A woman who calls herself Tamira and advertises her services on Craigslist, said otherwise. She said prostitutes who work the streets may ignore the signs. However, she said, some prostitutes may move elsewhere.

"If I saw a sign that said, 'Prostitution Free Zone' I would feel a little uncomfortable that there would be a house next store where police are at," she said.

Tamira also believes some visitors will come to the inauguration for legitimate business, but prostitute on the side to make extra money. (sic all)

Hookers caught violating the prohibition face possible jail and a $300 fine.

I believe the signs are more symbolic than threatening and send a signal to Washington's streetwalking crowd to be somewhat discreet during the inauguration so as not to embarrass the city or the new administration. After all, what's more difficult to explain? Anecdotal reports of hookers on the streets or jail records of the arrests of a thousand hookers?

Tip: Charley Nestor