Wheaton Photography Studio A Front For Escort Services: Lawsuit

WHEATON, IL — DuPage County officials have filed a lawsuit to close Hot Shots Photography in Wheaton after an undercover investigation revealed that the studio advertised adult escort services, authorities said. The lawsuit alleges that Hot Shots Photography charged clients who responded to the ad a $100 cover fee and an additional fee of up to $1500 to "engage in sexual activity" with employees.

The lawsuit states that "the business operations of Hot Shots are such that a significant or substantial portion of such operations involve an activity distinguished or characterized by its emphasis on matters depicting, describing or relating to specified sexual activities.”

The suit further contends that Hot Shots Photography, located at 0N758 Gary Ave., operated an "adult business" within 1000 feet of residentially-zoned property, a school and the Wheaton North athletic fields.

The lawsuit comes after an undercover operation was started in November 2018 following reports of prostitution and illegal activity at the purported photography studio. "I'm pleased that after several long months, the residents near this business finally have some relief," DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin said in a statement.

"We have been watching this property closely, and through the development of our Adult Businesses Committee, have been working toward proper regulations to reduce the harmful effects this business and others like it can have on the community," Cronin added.