Published on: October 2, 2024, 08:01h. 

Last updated on: October 2, 2024, 08:03h.

The city of Las Vegas (referred to as “downtown” by tourists) unanimously agreed on Wednesday to expand its “order-out corridor.” This area allows judges to prohibit individuals from entering for up to a year, instead of serving jail time, after being convicted of misdemeanors committed in that specific zone.

The initial order-out corridor in the city, which came into effect last November, included Fremont Street and the surrounding area of The Strat. The expansion now covers an additional 29 acres around the Plaza Hotel and Main Street Station.

Individuals found in areas where they are prohibited by a court order may be arrested by the police without the need for further evidence of criminal activity.

City officials argue that this ordinance has led to a reduction in crime. They reported during a presentation at City Hall in July that 246 people had been instructed to stay away from downtown in the first eight months following the ordinance’s implementation.

Over 80 individuals were jailed for violating the order, with only nine repeating the offense.

The most common offenses included trespassing, battery, hindering police activities, giving false information, and causing disturbances.

Mayor Carolyn Goodman, the original ordinance sponsor, emphasized the importance of this measure at a City Council meeting in November, stating, “This is a crucial initial step to ensure the safety of everyone, including law enforcement.”

Challenging Liberties?

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Nevada, which opposed the expansion at the recent City Council meeting, is expected to take legal action against the city. The ACLU had previously challenged an order-out corridor implemented by Clark County around the Las Vegas Strip two years ago.

An amicus brief filed by the ACLU last summer supported Ackeem Ramsay, a man on probation who was banned from the Strip for pandering. The brief argued that banning Ramsay violated his constitutional rights, as even convicted individuals have the right to access public spaces under the First Amendment.

The ACLU also criticized order-out corridors for unfairly targeting homeless individuals, who lack alternative options. According to the ACLU, a significant number of those arrested under order-out directives on the Strip, including hundreds of individuals, were homeless.

Both ordinances expanded beyond previous limitations that only applied to criminals convicted of prostitution or drug-related offenses.