I have waited some time before “weighing in” on this subject, for like many areas of the law, everyone has an opinion, and rarely is one changed by any discussion or logic. Having stated that, let me give you my approach and perspective as to the suppression of prostitution and really anyother “crime.”

I (as an elected sheriff) do not have the luxury of determining what is and is not “a crime.” These determinations are rightly made by the duly elected legislators (Representatives and Senators). I am reguired by law to enforce these mandates. Ergo, those amongst you that believe that this is a “victimless crime” and should be legalized, should contact your legislators and work to have them changed. And, in the meantime, I would recommend (facetiously) that you invite these ladies and gentlemen of the evening, along with their pimps and drug pushers, to move to your neighborhood as an interim sanctuary.

I have traveled many times to Europe and visited those countries that have legalized (or euphemistically ‘decriminalized’) prostitution and many drugs. I can honestly tell you that they only traded one set of problems for another. Amsterdam (the Netherlands) is not a place you would want to live. The tax burden to support these ‘legalized’ activities is smothering the citizens. It is a true socialist environment. The associated costs for medical treatment(s) far outweigh the revenue it generates.

As an example, I have repeatedly been asked by the press in the ongoing Billings murder investigation as to the “motive for the crime.” Again, I as an elected sheriff, cannot concern myself with the motive (e.g., why do we try to legislate morality?), and quite frankly, do not care. Why? Two people have been murdered. That is against the law. It is my job and the job of the Escambia County Sheriffs Office to identify and bring to justice those that have committed this crime. For whatever reason.

So in conclusion, I will assure the citizens of Escambia County, that the ECSO will agressivley pursue those amongst us that have proven themselves (for whatever reason) unable to enjoy the freedoms that we collectively share. The freedom to choose between right and wrong, legal and illegal.

For this is the task of which I was elected to fulfill.

David Morgan, Sheriff
Escambia County, FL
436-9512

I commend our sheriff’s office for any crime that they try to get off the street, no matter how petty it may seem to some individuals.

It is just like picking up liter on the side of the road. If our county decided to quit picked up liter off the side of the road, What would our county look like? Not one many people would desire to live in.