Just to clarify, Ottawa does not have a vice squad per se, and this part of the business is not a priority. The only time that the police get involved in this part of the industry, at least in Ottawa is when there is evidence of drugs or underage. It is complaint driven, therefore it is only street level stuff that is the focus. Too shy, you are absolutely correct, the police are not idiots, and IF this was something they were interested in they would certainly have no problem in acting upon it. We have had police come by and speak with the ladies, and make sure they are ok and doing it on their own accord, and of course making sure everyone was of legal age. And that has happen several times over the years. But that is where it ends, because this isnt what is a priority to them at this time. Quebec has a different and more agressive approach to the industry, Ottawa is using a much more common sense way of doing things.
The reason that police are charging strippers is because where they are working is deemed a pubic place, and if they are doing extras it's considered a lewd act in public. So getting a hj or bj or fs in a strip club is wayyy more risky than going to see an escort.
Um, actually Ottawa has a "street crimes" unit, so technically there is a vice squad. They only deal with drugs and street prostitution.