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New Law Classifies Underage Prostitution As Racketeering

A new law taking effect this week in Arizona changes the way underage prostitution is classified. 

The law, prompted by the recommendations of a governor’s task force, classifies underage prostitution as racketeering, said Tempe police Lt. Scott Smith.

“Additional protections are going to be afforded to those that are held against their will and forced to engage in this behavior," Smith said.

The new law also penalizes adults who knowingly have sex with 15- to 17-year-olds and attempts to provide the underage victims of prostitution with the services they need.