savafan
06-10-2005, 08:38 PM
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050605.whook0605/BNStory/International/
Lindenwold, N.J. — Police made a surprising discovery when they busted the alleged madam of a prostitution ring called “August Playmates”: The woman running the show was an 80-year-old grandmother.
Authorities arrested Vera Tursi last month during a sting operation to crack down on prostitution rings posing as legal escort services. Police say Tursi ran the business from her two-bedroom apartment, taking $60 of every $160 she charged clients for one hour with a call girl.
Law enforcement officials say Ms. Tursi admitted her role in the business, saying she took it over a few years ago from her daughter, who had died. Police say Ms. Tursi told them she needed money to subsidize her Social Security checks.
Ms. Tursi has been charged with a a single count of promoting prostitution. If convicted, she faces up to five years in prison. But because of her age and lack of a criminal record, she's more likely to receive probation.
Lindenwold, N.J. — Police made a surprising discovery when they busted the alleged madam of a prostitution ring called “August Playmates”: The woman running the show was an 80-year-old grandmother.
Authorities arrested Vera Tursi last month during a sting operation to crack down on prostitution rings posing as legal escort services. Police say Tursi ran the business from her two-bedroom apartment, taking $60 of every $160 she charged clients for one hour with a call girl.
Law enforcement officials say Ms. Tursi admitted her role in the business, saying she took it over a few years ago from her daughter, who had died. Police say Ms. Tursi told them she needed money to subsidize her Social Security checks.
Ms. Tursi has been charged with a a single count of promoting prostitution. If convicted, she faces up to five years in prison. But because of her age and lack of a criminal record, she's more likely to receive probation.