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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A new Utah initiative cracking down on those suspected of engaging in prostitute services has led to more than 50 arrests this week.
Salt Lake City police announced the week-long sting Friday, citing the new Justice Reform Initiative that makes patronizing a prostitute a class A misdemeanor.
That means those suspected of seeking or engaging in prostitute services can now be arrested with their cars impounded.
Those convicted can expect punishment of up to $2,500 in fines and one year in jail.
Previously, suspects were merely ticketed with a citation.
Police said they hope the sting will deter prostitution by showing how authorities will impose harsher outcomes on those seeking illegal sexual services.
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