Oldest Profession: Don’t Stop

As its reputation suggests, the world's oldest profession figures to be with us for a while. Reports that arrests for prostitution in Central Virginia have not wiped out the practice do not surprise. The relatively steady incidence of arrests does not argue for relaxation of the law or its enforcement, either.

Activity along certain notorious corridors would be far greater if police did not routinely patrol the areas and launch undercover operations. Enforcement makes a difference. Prostitution belongs to the category of vice that moves around. Some years ago, blocks on West Grace resembled New York's infamous Minnesota Strip. They are quieter now. That the trade has moved elsewhere does not mean the sweeps should not have occurred. Residents and businesses are happy they did. (The Minnesota Strip has been cleaned up, too.)

Laws exist because humans sin. Laws can discourage and diminish yet cannot eliminate. Cain's slaying of Abel may be the first murder, the original crime. Man has been killing his fellow man ever since. Laws against murder in various degrees, and against manslaughter as well, remain on the books, and ever will.