This dataset was generated from a qualitative, exploratory study to understand how the Baltimore Specialized Prostitution Diversion Program (SPD) operated and was experienced by those working and participating in it. Qualitative data included observations of participants during their interactions with the court and SPD staff as well as interviews with twenty-one SPD clients. Administrative program data was collected in 2010 on 616 arrestees and included demographic information, self-assessment for areas of need, and participants’ goals. Administrative court data collected by SPD staff was also examined for 221 eligible participants and included court dates, weekly attendance, and program completion. The semi-structured interview guide allowed participant input with questions centered on their understanding and experience of the program, what impeded or facilitated their participation and engagement with the program, and general recommendations.
This dataset was compiled from interviews and focus groups of 17 women currently or formerly engaged in street prostitution in Baltimore, Maryland. The participants were recruited from a drop-in center run by a nonprofit organization. The primary focus of the research was to identify factors from the respondents’ perspectives that would serve to enhance prostitution policy development. Discussions included issues of trauma and substance abuse, compassionate versus punitive treatment, the need for targeted services, and the Baltimore Specialized Prostitution Program. Additionally, study respondents were asked to use collages to provide visual representations to express their future hopes and aspirations. This dataset is comprised of demographic data, interview and focus group transcripts, and photographs of the collages.
This research examined newly implemented prostitution diversion programs in Baltimore City and Philadelphia from the perspectives of program participants and program staff. Via interviews, focus groups, and observations this qualitative longitudinal study examined the program participants’ motivations for participating in the problem-solving court models as well as how they negotiate with court professionals to meet their needs and achieved their goals. A series of 1 to 5 interviews per person were conducted during and after participation in the respective program. To explore concerns around trauma, substance abuse, and stigma 5 brief questionnaires were administered during the second interview. Also evaluated were quantitative data such as participant demographics, program take-up and compliance rates, and types of services requested. One-time interviews were also conducted with program social workers, public defenders, prosecutors, probation officers, and judges to explore personal and professional beliefs, resources constraints, and general views on program participants and prostitution. All interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim. Observations were also conducted in court, prison, probation, and street settings. Current partial dataset consists of 1 TXT README file, 8 document PDFs, and 21 interview PDFs and will be supplemented by additional materials as they become available