"D.C. Madam" Apparently Kills Herself, Cops: Body Near Fla. Mobile Home Is Woman Convicted In Prostitution Ring Serving D.C. Elite - CBS News

So exactly what is the compelling social purpose that made it necessary for Federal Prosecutors to drive her to suicide? In fact this is the second suicide in the case.

Meanwhile Palfrey's Republican client, Senator Vitter does not appear to be at risk of prosecution. Democrat Elliot Spitzer may be prosecuted, but is unlikely to spend the possible 55 years in prison that Palfrey faced.

I think that politicians suport prostitution laws for much the same reason that many used to support anti-gay laws: persecuting others helps distract attention from the fact that they engage in the same behavior themselves.