LAS VEGAS (AP) — A nondescript warehouse off the Las Vegas Strip is now a new courtroom for cases against those who illegally sell goods in the city's most crowded tourism corridor.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports Clark County officials are hoping a pilot program will keep illegitimate vendors off the streets but out of overcrowded jails.

Commercial activities have been banned from sidewalks and pedestrian bridges since the county passed new rules in 2012.

Capt. Chris Tomaino says enforcement is like trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon.

Officers on overtime are boosting efforts on the Strip for the next two months.

The county-owned building cost $45,000 to turn into a court room.

People can avoid criminal cases by acknowledging civil liability.

Fines range from $250 to $1,000.