Trio Used Crestwood Building For Prostitution

Three people are accused of participating in a prostitution ring based in Maryland Heights and Crestwood.

Charged with promoting prostitution were:

• Christopher Witter, 40, of the 12000 block of Glenpark Drive in Maryland Heights
• Arlinda Hughes of the 13100 block of Bellerive Farm Drive in Creve Coeur
• Miriam Y. Garner, of the 11500 block of Rock Hampton Drive in the Spanish Lake area.

Police said the three participated in prostitution both at Witter’s home and at a building at 8970 Watson Road in Crestwood.

Witter was charged with second-degree promoting prostitution; Hughes and Garner were charged with third-degree promoting prostitution.

Maryland Heights Police said an investigation into prostitution rings marketed online, Witter's phone number appeared in several ads.

A detective called the number and made an appointment for March 22, and he went to Witter’s address in Maryland Heights.

Garner met the undercover officer wearing only her underwear, and told him to get undressed, police reported. When she started stroking his genitals, the officer gave a signal and a raid team entered the home, according to a court document.

Police said Hughes and Garner admitted to allowing their photos to be used in online ads and to participating in prostitution in which they received a percentage of the proceeds.

Police said Witter acted as a pimp, running the web site and helping arrange appointments. Police said he had at least three women working for him.

Witter posted 10 percent of a $7,500 cash bond Monday and was released from jail. Bail also was set at $7,500 for Garner and Hughes.