Do police need a loitering law to stop human trafficking in California? The answer is a clear no, says retired Los Angeles Police Department Sergeant Cheryl Dorsey.

In a powerful op-ed for the Los Angeles Times, Sgt. Dorsey explains why California’s loitering law is discriminatory and makes everyone less safe, including trafficking victims:

“The reality of the old-fashioned loitering law is that by targeting and harming some of our most vulnerable communities, it limits police officers’ ability to ensure public safety. Removing it will better protect people from sex trafficking and abuse, and so promote public safety.”[1]

“[The Safer Streets for All Act] puts a stop to unjust, racist and transphobic harassment that makes our streets less safe. Police officers are tasked with enforcing the law, not making it. That’s why it’s crucial that the legislature abolish bad laws that make it harder for officers to do their jobs. Newsom can uphold Californians’ commitment to safety and equality by signing the Safer Streets for All Act (SB 357).”[2]