Hapeville OKs ordinance to combat human trafficking

The city of Hapeville recently approved the creation of a new subsection for loitering with the intent to solicit sex for hire to its current loitering ordinance. The move is an effort to fight the growing national and metro Atlanta problem of human trafficking, according to a May work session agenda item. It states that the new provision has a $1,000 fine for the first offense of loitering with the intent of soliciting sex for hire.

The City Council also recently gave the nod to a measure changing the required removal of graffiti to within seven days of a notice of violation from 30 days. There is also a provision allowing for a reasonable plan of action that may be provided to the city within three days of a violation notice.