In a shocking case that highlights the importance of public health awareness, an Ohio sex worker continued her trade despite testing positive for HIV. The woman, identified as 30-year-old Linda Leccesse, had contact with at least 211 clients over a two-year period, even after learning about her HIV status in 2022.
The Disturbing Details
- HIV-Positive and Active: Linda Leccesse, a sex worker operating primarily on Market Street in Marietta, Ohio, allegedly solicited most of her clients while knowing she was HIV-positive.
- Risk to Clients: Authorities believe that Leccesse’s potentially infected clients could be spread across multiple states, including Florida and extending up the East Coast.
- Public Health Alert: The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Marietta Police Department are now working to contact the 211 individuals who may have been in contact with Leccesse. Their goal is to ensure that these individuals get screened and, if necessary, receive treatment for HIV.
- No Scam, Just Awareness: Chief Deputy Mark Warden emphasized that this outreach is not about punishment but rather public health awareness. The investigation is confidential, and those contacted are encouraged to be honest with officials.
- Relatives and Sexual Partners: Relatives of Leccesse’s clients and anyone who had sexual contact with them are also considered vulnerable to potential exposure.
Marietta/Belpre Health Department: A Judgment-Free Zone
- The Marietta/Belpre Health Department, where individuals can seek testing and support, operates as a judgment-free zone with full confidentiality.
- Authorities are urging anyone who engaged in sexual activity with Leccesse to seek immediate medical attention and get tested for HIV.
Legal Consequences
- Leccesse was arrested on May 13 for soliciting sex on Market Street.
- Authorities later discovered that she had been aware of her HIV status for over two years.
- On the following day, she was indicted for engaging in solicitation after receiving a positive HIV test result—a third-degree felony charge in Ohio.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible behavior, regular testing, and public health vigilance. Let us all prioritize our well-being and protect ourselves and our communities. 🌟
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Sources:
- Scripps News: Public Health Alert Issued After HIV-Positive Sex Worker Had Over 200 Clients
- New York Post: HIV Horror – Sex Worker Engaged With Over 200 Clients Despite Knowing She Had The Virus
- Fox8: Ohio Public Health Notice – Sex Worker With HIV Had Sexual Contact With More Than 200 People
Please note that this blog provides information based on publicly available sources and does not replace professional advice.
