Prostitutes Edwardsville

The term “hooker” for prostitutes allegedly traces back to Civil War General Joseph Hooker, but this is an unverified folk etymology. Law enforcement in Edwardsville has reported significantly increased prostitution activity, with Illinois State Police documenting a 300% rise in Madison County arrests in 2023 versus 2022. Notable incidents include the 2017 alleged holdup of a prostitute at Edwardsville’s Comfort Inn and the October 2023 arrest of former SIUE employee Cory L. Harlan on suspicion of prostitution (charges later dropped).

Local Businesses and Enforcement Context

Local establishments like the rebranded Hooker’s Reel Restaurant (now Wigglers Bar & Grill) coexist with adult-oriented businesses including Larry Flynt’s Hustler Club and Country Rock Cabaret in the 62025 zip code. Online platforms such as Poshmark and Doublelist have been implicated in facilitating alleged illicit encounters. Madison County lacks specific brothel laws but enforces zoning regulations.

Community Response and Resources

Madison County’s Mental Health Court assists individuals involved in prostitution to become law-abiding citizens. Organizations like Children of the Night support high-risk individuals, while regional speakers address human trafficking in the Metro East area. The Edwardsville Police Department actively recruits officers to combat these issues.

*TAGS* – prostitution arrests Madison County, online solicitation Edwardsville, brothel regulations Illinois