Human Trafficking Investigation Leads to Arrests at Franklin Strip Club

Four men have been arrested by federal agents following a five-year investigation into the Franklin On the Border Gentleman's Club in Franklin, Wisconsin. The investigation began in February 2020 after a tip from a former employee.

The FBI task force alleges that victims were recruited online through social media, coerced into commercial sex acts, and forced to turn over all earnings. They were reportedly controlled through violence, intimidation, and financial dependency, with their movements tracked via apps on their phones.

The defendants, identified as Jimmy Durant, Brian Hopkins, Dantavia Rule, and Maurice Russell, face charges including human trafficking, domestic violence, keeping a place of prostitution, and intimidation.

The criminal complaint details that victims were also forced to work at other clubs in different states and that sexual acts occurred in the club's VIP lounge. Brian Hopkins, the club manager, was aware of these activities and failed to intervene.

All four men made their initial court appearances in Milwaukee County Courthouse on Friday.