The number of people arrested on suspicion of soliciting prostitution has dropped dramatically in recent years, according to police figures. Between the start of 2015 and the end of 2019, there were a total of 119 crimes recorded across the force area, resulting in 89 police cautions being handed out.

While between 2020 and 2024, just 21 crimes were recorded for alleged soliciting for the purpose of prostitution, resulting in 12 cautions and two instances where a suspect was charged. Cleveland Police has said this reflects a 'purposeful shift' towards addressing sex work and prioritising the safeguarding of vulnerable people.

Figures, published on the force's website following a Freedom of Information request, show in 2019 30 crimes were recorded. This dropped to seven the following year

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