Trial Date Set for Businessman Tied to Danbury Sex Traffic Ring

DANBURY, CT — A trial date has been set for the millionaire businessman charged with conspiracy in a sex trafficking ring, the News Times is reporting.

Bruce Bemer, 65, was arrested in March 2017 and charged with being a client in a sex trafficking scheme that was based in a Danbury trailer home. He is free on $500,000 bail.

Police allege that the ring exploited young males with mental health issues by delivering them to wealthy clients statewide for the purpose of sex for money. The investigation began in January of 2016, but the business was in operation for over two decades, according to court documents.

Bemer is the owner of Glastonbury-based Bemer Petroleum and the New London-Waterford Speedbowl.

In January 2018, Bemer rejected a plea deal that could have kept him out of jail on human trafficking sexual charges. He decided instead that he wanted a jury trial, which carries the risk of up to 20 years in prison if convicted. His attorney Anthony Spinella said he doesn't believe the state can make its case and many witnesses lack credibility.

Bemer's trial has been set for Jan. 31.

Photo via Danbury PD.