Opinion ID: 2633305
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: CCO 12.08.030 chills constitutionally protected conduct

Text: CCO 12.08.030 chills constitutionally protected conduct because it substantially envelops ordinary activities that may only be mere indicators of prostitution loitering. The ordinance suggests that repeatedly beckoning to, stopping, attempting to stop, or engaging passersby in conversation, or repeatedly stopping or attempting to stop operators of motor vehicles by hailing, waving of arms, or any other bodily gesture are circumstances indicative of prostitution loitering. However, these actions, in and of themselves, are constitutionally protected activities that may be performed without any regard to prostitution whatsoever. [30] A person performing these actions may simply be hailing a cab or a friend, chatting on a public street, or strolling aimlessly about. [31] CCO 12.08.030 chills this constitutionally protected conduct because people would otherwise risk arrest. Providing the opportunity to explain one's conduct does nothing to stave off this chilling effect. An arresting officer need not accept the explanation or give it any weight. [32] And even if a trial court should believe the explanation and acquit the arrestee, it would be too late because the person's First Amendment rights would have already been chilled by the arrest. [33] Thus, we conclude that CCO 12.08.030 chills constitutionally protected conduct.