Alderman wants ‘prostitution-free zones’
BY FRANK MAIN Staff Reporter/fmain@suntimes.com April 15, 2011 12:44AM
Updated: May 16, 2011 2:49PM
Parts of Chicago would become “prostitution-free zones” under an ordinance introduced by a West Side alderman.
Ald. Jason Ervin (28th) said the ordinance would bar those convicted of prostitution-related offenses from public parks and walkways in the zones. The police superintendent would designate the zones with input from elected officials and community groups.
Ervin said prostitution is a problem in his ward, especially near Madison and Kilbourn west of Garfield Park.
“Residents there have to pick up used condoms off their lawns,” he said. “I don’t want my community to look like that. This gives police another tool.”
Ervin, the 36-year-old son of a former Chicago police commander, said he believes the proposed ordinance would pass constitutional muster.
He pointed to the city’s anti-gang loitering ban, which prohibits known gang members from congregating in designated hot spots.
Last year, Mayor Daley appointed Ervin as the 28th ward alderman to replace Ed Smith, who retired. Ervin was elected in February.
