The Politics of Strip Clubs: Are Lap Dances Free Speech?

[Small Business Owner of Any Repute]

Judge's ruling protects lap dancing as free speech
Dancer was cited in April 2005 after 'prohibited touching' of undercover officer

DENNIS THOMPSON
Statesman Journal

Lap dances are legal in Salem, protected by the Oregon Constitution's free speech provisions, a Marion County judge ruled this week.

A city ordinance outlawing "prohibited touching" -- sexually exciting physical contact for pay -- has been ruled unconstitutional by Circuit Judge Albin Norblad.

The case involves Laurel Guillen, 24, a dancer at a northeast Salem club called Cheetah's who gave a lap dance to an undercover officer in April 2005.

Salem residents hoping to limit strip club activity in the city called the ruling a setback.

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