Fashion police hard at work in southern states

This week, Tuscumbia, Alabama became the latest town to join the fight against a fashion trend long known to offend the eyes — sagging pants. Areas that mandate an ordinance against said crime of fashion, such as Albany, Georgia — which began enforcing the law last November — have recently begun to see an increase in cash flow from the fines.

The law prohibits both men and women from wearing pants that hang more than three inches from the hips, allowing both underwear and unmentionables to become visible. The first offence will cost a violator $25, but jumps to $200 for the second.

A city attorney reported to the Albany Herald that since the ordinance went out, “The Municipal Court advises that 187 citations have been issued and fines collected of $3,916.49.” The Herald estimates there are $1500 dollars in citations expected to come in before the end of the year.

Though sagging pants can’t legally get an offender arrested, other penalties include serving up to 40 hours of community service. Critics call the mandate racist, saying it targets African American pop culture; however, city officials claim the law doesn’t discriminate..

Other cities, including President Jimmy Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia have been reported to enact similar laws.  Lynwood, a suburb of Chicago, was the first city to take strides against the criminal fashion faux pas in 2008.