Times are tough and discretionary spending is down, but this is ridiculous! Local 10 News in Miami reports…

2-Cent Offer Puts Man Behind Bars

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. — The Lee County Sheriff’s Office said a Bonita Springs man has been arrested after offering undercover deputy who was posing as a prostitute 2 cents for sex.

Fausino Diaz Hernandez, 46, has been charged with soliciting a prostitute.

According to an arrest report, Hernandez offered a female undercover deputy two pennies on Thursday night.

Acting Sgt. Matt Chitwood, of the narcotics and vice operations for the Bonita Springs Community Policing unit, said Hernandez offered the undercover deputy other things as well, including cigarette lighters and a bicycle.

Hernandez’s arrest was part of a three-hour sting to crack down on prostitution in Bonita Springs. He was one of 10 men arrested during the sting.