There’s an old saying about teaching an old dog new tricks, and in Los Angeles, sex offenders caught with prostitutes can actually enroll in what’s known as john schools. By graduating from this program, they can avoid prison and clear their criminal records.
This innovative rehabilitation initiative aims to help Johns reform their lifestyles. Graduates often express gratitude, claiming it has saved their jobs, marriages, and even lives.
Bill Margolis, the founder of the Prostitution Diversion Program, or The John School, emphasizes that many men mistakenly believe prostitution is a victimless crime. He aims to change that perception, shedding light on the harsh realities of the industry to help men make better choices.
Having spent three decades working as a vice officer in LA, Margolis witnessed countless instances of exploitation and abuse. He has seen women coerced into terrible situations by abusive pimps and has also encountered men whose lives have been severely affected by sex addiction.
Margolis believes that revealing the grim truths behind the prostitution industry can profoundly impact participants. He recalls one instance where a survivor shared her painful experiences in front of a roomful of men, leaving many in tears.
Redirecting Sex Addicts and Clearing Records
This one-day course includes online sessions where participants hear alarming statistics and hear firsthand stories from former prostitutes and Johns who wandered through areas like L.A.’s notorious Figueroa Corridor, commonly referred to as “The Blade.”
Initially launched in Los Angeles County, the program has expanded its reach to Riverside, Orange, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. Margolis highlighted that over 4,400 people have completed the program, including everyday workers, medical professionals, lawyers, and even some celebrities.
During their time at John School, participants not only avoid jail time but are also able to have their records expunged.
One graduate, named Eddie, shared how he had been spending an excessive amount on prostitutes, and his financial struggles affected his family life. After finding himself involved in sex acts and facing an arrest, he was given the choice: serve time or join John School.
Surprisingly, Eddie discovered that many men shared similar struggles with sex addiction. He found the program enlightening, learning more about the psychological roots of his habits and connecting with a therapist. Since completing the course, he hasn’t felt tempted to return to “The Blade.”
Success Stories
Eddie’s story isn’t unique. In its first five years, it was reported that only four of the 1,550 men sent to the program were rearrested for soliciting prostitution. In fact, similar programs have popped up in cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C.
A notable case last year involved Kyle Snyder, a star wrestler and Olympic gold medalist, who was arrested on prostitution charges and sent to John School.
Another graduate, Will, explained how attending John School helped him realize the emotional toll his actions took on the women he engaged with. However, it’s worth noting that not all individuals caught soliciting are given the option to attend the school. Margolis pointed out that those arrested for soliciting minors face jail time instead.
The Stark Reality
Margolis remembers his time as a deputy, rescuing young girls caught in the cycle of exploitation. Some of these girls faced brutal treatment from their pimps. Notably, some were even coerced into violent actions against their clients or those who threatened them.
Even after Margolis left the force, the realities of exploitation remained. Recently, women were observed in Los Angeles, braving the cold while trying to attract clients from dawn until dusk, despite the obvious risks involved.
Efforts to crack down on human trafficking have intensified in recent years. In one major operation, the LAPD arrested over 300 suspects involved in trafficking. Just last August, Amaya Armstead, known as “Lady Duck,” was apprehended alongside her associates for allegedly targeting vulnerable teenage girls.
While law enforcement continues to challenge these operations, many women still find themselves on the streets, selling their bodies, often without full awareness of the dangers they face.
Eddie reflected on his past activities, acknowledging the illegal nature of what he was doing and the damage it caused to both himself and the women involved.
