The Rockford Police Department received information regarding alleged illegal commercial sex trade happening at two locations on 7th Street.
After an investigation over several months, detectives conducted search warrants at the Chantilly Lace and Exclusive Lingerie Boutique in May. The businesses were shut down due to code violations.
Several female employees were detained for questioning.
The follow up investigation was reviewed by the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office.
As a result, charges have been filed against multiple individuals, including Peggy Smith, owner of Chantilly Lace. She is charged with 12 counts of promoting a place of prostitution. Smith is currently in custody at the Winnebago County Jail on $100,000 bond.
The defendants are presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.
Mayor Tom McNamara's office issued a release after the announcement. McNamara says the charges have a significant impact on the community.
“For years, there have been rumors about the type of illicit activities happening in these businesses, but they have been historically difficult to investigate," according to the statement. "With the help of those willing to come forward and provide critical information, we were able to shut these businesses down and take a big step in ending this type of activity in our community.”
Jennifer Cacciapaglia is the manager of the Mayor’s Office of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Prevention.
“The individuals targeted in this effort represent those responsible for driving the demand for the commercial sex industry," Cacciapaglia said. "This industry, which is built upon the sale and purchase of human beings for use and abuse, has no place in our community. Many people do not realize that individuals purchasing sex walk among us every day. ‘Johns’ come from all demographics and socioeconomic statuses.” She says her office will continue to develop strategies to disrupt the activities of purchasers and traffickers.