Rise in Prostitution Concerns City Council

New Bedford City Councilors have noticed an increase in prostitution and fear it puts all women in the city at risk.

Councilors addressed a motion to discuss the issue with the chief of police, the Mayor's Office, and the Women's Center during Thursday evening's meeting.

Councilor Dana Rebeiro says the major concern is for the safety of the women involved, as well as the women in the surrounding problem neighborhoods.

Councilors suggested targeting the men soliciting these women in ways such as publicizing their names or towing their vehicles when caught.

The Council believes this type of targeting would persuade "Johns" not to take part in these illegal activities.