Prostitution Bust at Mummers Clubhouse

A lot more than just the Mummers Strut was allegedly going on inside a South Philly Mummers clubhouse, according to Philadelphia Police.

Police received a tip that a prostitution ring was allegedly being run out of the Downtowners Fancy Brigade clubhouse at 148-50 Snyder Avenue in South Philly on certain nights, according to cops.

This prompted a six-week long investigation that culminated on Tuesday when two undercover officers were sent to the clubhouse.

"In a very, very short period of time, they were solicited by 10 separate females and during the course of their undercover work they saw in plain view very sexual acts taking place," said Deputy Police Commissioner William Blackburn.

Police say there were 20 to 25 women inside, ranging from their 20s to mid-40s, some scantily clad and some completely naked.

Police also say there were about 50 to 60 people inside the clubhouse with large amounts of alcohol being sold, even though those selling it didn't have a license. Police confiscated 15 to 20 beer kegs and a large amount of liquor.

In the end, police arrested and charged 10 women with various prostitution offenses. They also arrested one man for promoting prostitution and two men for illegally selling alcohol.

Police say the prostitution parties took place on the second Tuesday of each month and that there was a $30 cover charge. Sex acts cost anywhere from $80 to $100.

Some members of the mummers were at their headquarters on Tuesday and police say that two of the three men arrested have ties to the Fancies.


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