FBI, Providence, North Providence Police Raid Multiple Locations in Possible Prostitution Sting
GoLocalProv News Team
FBI, Providence, North Providence Police Raid Multiple Locations in Possible Prostitution Sting
Law enforcement was seen in Olneyville Square around 10:30 a.m. raiding a store on the street; another raid occurred simultaneously at a home on High Service Avenue in North Providence.
The raids are believed to be related to prostitution activities.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTAccording to witnesses, women were taken out of the home at 40 High Service Avenue in North Providence.
A neighbor was reportedly interviewed by the FBI.
The chiefs of Providence and North Providence Police Departments did not respond to request for comment at time of publication.
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A separate Cranston Police raid two weeks ago has raised serious concerns about sex trafficking and the industry that allows it.
The owners of one of the properties that housed one of the alleged illegal massage parlors is a corporation owned by one of the state’s most influential couples — Director of the Division of the Motor Vehicles Walter Craddock and House Policy Director Lynn Urbani Craddock — combined, the two earn more than $300,000 annually.
According to Cranston Police, "During their investigation, Detectives uncovered what they believe to be evidence of labor trafficking as well as prostitution. A substantial amount of United States currency was seized, and records and information will be utilized in an ongoing investigation of human trafficking. The US Department of Homeland Security Investigations continues to assist with the joint investigation.”
“The Governor has serious concerns about this situation and the allegations of human trafficking. Our Office is reaching out to law enforcement to get a full understanding of all of the facts related to this case which will inform next steps. The Governor will have additional comment after that time,” said McKee’s office in a statement to GoLocal on Saturday.
Speaker of the House Joseph Shekarchi said, “This is a private matter and is unrelated to the excellent work that Lynne Urbani performs as a dedicated public servant on behalf of the people of the state.”
Shekarchi did not respond to questions if Urbani Craddock should have known that the property was being used for illegal activities. Cranston Police have confirmed that the property was raided previously for prostitution and operating an illegal massage parlor in 2017.