City trying to shut down "lingerie" stores

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Kris Schubach/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis, Nov. 11 - They claim to sell lingerie, advertising live models. But some believe there is more going on behind the glass. Neighbor Gene Watson thinks, "they're having sex over there."

An investigation by the city seems to agree.

Monday prosecutors went to court to shut down three lingerie businesses; Silk Stockings on South Madison Avenue, Lace and Leathers on North Lafayette Road and just down the street The Banana Split. Authorities charge the businesses are fronts for adult entertainment.

"You pay $40, go to a private booth, the model progressively gets unclothed until completely nude," explains City Prosecutor Teri Kendrick.

Complaints to the Indianapolis Police Department prompted an investigation which led to Monday's charges.

Two of the businesses are located on Lafayette Road in the city's west district.

IPD's Tim Horty says, "Even in the winter months you see ladies in bikinis and negligees are sort of hailing business in from Lafayette Road."

Watson's south side car sales business is right next door to one of three lingerie shops targeted by the city. "I'm sure I've lost customers due to that type of business next door."

On Monday, although the sign said "open" the doors were locked and no one wanted to comment.

Eventually they will have to answer to charges in court.