Prostitutes Edwardsville
The term “hooker” for prostitutes surprisingly doesn’t originate from Civil War General Joseph Hooker, despite a popular myth. His troops’ camp in Washington D.C. was known for its red-light district, leading to the association. The nickname stuck, but the word predates him. In Edwardsville, Illinois, the topic of prostitution surfaces in various ways.
Police Activity and Arrests
Illinois State Police reported a significant rise in prostitution arrests in Madison County for 2023 compared to 2022. Specific incidents include: Cory L. Harlan, a former SIUE Housing employee, was arrested for prostitution in October 2023 and subsequently resigned; A Florissant man was investigated for allegedly robbing a prostitute at the Comfort Inn in Edwardsville in 2017; Federal and state authorities arrested a former Edwardsville couple in 2015 on charges involving sex trafficking and prostitution of minors. One pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting; Alton police conducted online sting operations leading to arrests for soliciting prostitution.
Community Concerns and Business Impact
The name “Hooker’s Reel Restaurant and Pizzeria” in Edwardsville inevitably drew attention due to the word’s association with prostitution. It has since rebranded as Wigglers Bar & Grill. Larry Flynt’s Hustler Club is also listed as a nearby adult venue. Community concerns include allegations that platforms like Poshmark were being misused for human trafficking in Edwardsville, and debates about the appropriateness of business names before rebranding.
Regulations and Ongoing Activity
While specific “brothel laws” don’t exist in Madison County, local zoning ordinances regulate such activities. Websites and online personals listings advertise casual encounters and escort services in the Edwardsville area, reflecting ongoing demand. The connection between the historical nickname’s origin and modern-day concerns about prostitution and related crimes remains a complex part of Edwardsville’s local landscape. The arrest of a university staff member highlights that the issue touches various parts of the community.
*TAGS* – Madison County prostitution arrests, Hooker’s Reel rebranding, Edwardsville sex trafficking cases
