Some operations are performed in operating rooming interiors in the city center. Courtesy of the Municipal Police to CRH.
According to municipal authorities there are more than 70 clandestine locations that offer paid sexual services in downtown San Jose. The list includes game rooms, motels and hotels which operate as prostitution centers. The director of the municipal police estimates there are between 1,500 and 2,000 people, mostly women who are involved in the activity.
The problem is coming to light since judicial authorities raided one such brothel on Wednesday and made two arrests. Although prostitution is not illegal, it is a crime for a third party to accept money or engage in pimping.
Municipal authorities say they are powerless to deny permits for businesses connected with the activity. Specifically, the law does not allow the municipality to deny a permit even when officials suspect that a business will become brothel.