Tampa Prostitutes May Face Strong Defense From Police

TAMPA, FL -- Tampa police officers say the Super Bowl draws a couple of unwelcomed guests - prostitutes and the men who solicit them.

"The sun rises in the east and hookers come to town for the Super Bowl," says Captain Bret Bartlett with the Tampa Police Department.

To combat the problem, Tampa police officers are playing offense this week. The play call is a prostitution reverse sting. On this first day of the operation, officers tackle the men receiving the services and make 13 arrests in a few hours.

Police officers warn solicitation can lead to other crimes. "Also, possibly, whoever is running these girls [can] come in your room [and] rob you. We'll take your report that you've been robbed but not feel your pain, because you walked into this one, walked into the left hook. The message to you is don't do it or be ready for the consequences. You'll get caught," says Bartlett.

Officers say prostitutes are blitzing the market by using the internet. Many are promoting themselves on Craigslist. "These events draw large numbers of ladies into town. We know because we see gigantic a uptake in internet activity. The ladies post they're coming into town," says Bartlett.

Tampa police say they will look harder in areas commonly known for prostitution such as Dale Mabry Highway, Nebraska Avenue and Drew Park. They will also frequent massage parlors and Asian spas.

Bartlett says if you get caught the penalty is several hundred dollars, a missed Super Bowl game and possibly up to a year in jail. He does say, though, that the high priced call girls will be harder to catch.

Super Bowl fans new in town will have to learn some game rules such as the 6 foot rule. It calls for patrons to keep their distance from adult performers. Get too close and you'll be flagged for a personal foul. The penalty can add up to 60 days in jail for violating the city ordinance.

Bartlett says the crackdown is about keeping the city safe for everyone. "As a police agency, our main concern is people who come to town to have a great time, feel safe and secure."

Edited by: Gary Detman Multimedia Executive Producer GMJ | Facebook | Twitter | En Español	Created: 1/26/2009 6:04:36 PM Updated: 1/27/2009 12:13:05 PM Suggest News Tips & Story Leads Submit Video & Pictures