Executive Summary
- Four men, including a strip club manager, have been charged in a human trafficking investigation.
- The probe began with a 2021 FBI tip regarding a Michigan Avenue apartment.
- Prosecutors allege at least 24 women were trafficked, some operating out of “On the Border” club.
- Franklin officials indicated they may review the business licenses associated with the establishment.
Prosecutors in Milwaukee County have charged four men, including the manager of a Franklin strip club, following a multi-year investigation into an alleged sex trafficking ring sparked by a 2021 tip to the FBI. The extensive probe culminated in raids across the county, leading to the seizure of weapons, cash, and significant evidence.
Jimmy Durant, Dantavia Rule, Maurice Russel, and Brian Hopkins face a variety of charges, including human trafficking, domestic abuse, and victim intimidation. According to court records, Hopkins is identified as the manager of “On the Border Gentlemen’s Club” and is specifically charged with keeping a place of prostitution. Prosecutors allege that women were coerced into performing sexual acts for money at the club, with Hopkins receiving a portion of the illicit proceeds.
The investigation began after federal authorities received information regarding alleged prostitution, drug distribution, and federal loan fraud centered at an apartment on Michigan Avenue. Investigators allege that nearly $1 million was being stored at that location. According to law enforcement officials, the case was built through surveillance, undercover operations, and phone tracing. Recent raids on high-end condominiums in Milwaukee and an apartment in Oak Creek resulted in the seizure of firearms, jewelry, and cash suspected to be tied to money laundering.
In a written statement, the management of “On the Border” asserted that the business has served the community for nearly four decades and condemned any illegal activity. The statement affirmed the establishment’s support for the ongoing law enforcement investigation. Meanwhile, Franklin Mayor John Nelson stated that the city is being briefed by the police department and may review the establishment’s licenses as the legal process moves forward.
Judicial and Regulatory Implications
The arraignment of these four suspects marks a significant shift from a covert surveillance operation to active criminal litigation, with the accused scheduled to return to court next week. Beyond the immediate criminal charges, the direct implication of a licensed business in the indictment creates substantial regulatory exposure for the establishment, potentially triggering administrative reviews or license revocation hearings by the City of Franklin. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
