Akron, Ohio- A private social club was raided over the weekend for hosting a sex party, Akron police said.
Eleven people were arrested at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club 2238 in a sting police have dubbed “Operation Dirty Birdie.” Eagles trustees are accused of organizing a men’s night filled with booze, nude dancing and prostitution.
Police Lt. James Phister said officers received a tip from a perturbed club member who attended a men’s night a month ago and was shocked to find the entertainment included sexual activity.
“He made a complaint that there was prostitution going on,” Phister said. “When he bought a ticket, he didn’t know what he was getting into. It was billed as a men’s night out.”
When word got out that the East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue club was hosting another men’s night Saturday, Akron police and agents from the Ohio Department of Public Safety staked out the scene. Shortly before midnight, 12 officers and agents raided the party.
Among the arrested were Eagles trustees Frederick Fryberger and Douglas G. Miller, who police say were in charge of the event. Fryberger, 57, and Miller, 50, are charged with prostitution and procuring prostitution.
“(The trustees) sold tickets to the men’s night out at $10 apiece,” Phister said. “They picked up two dancers from a local dance club and brought them in. It started out as simple lap dancing around the crowd. As time progressed, the women became topless and bottomless. Then, (the dancers) were bringing guys up on the stage and engaging in sexual activity.”
Phister said the club remains under investigation. The two dancers were among those arrested. It is not clear whether more arrests will come.
Officials with the Department of Public Safety’s investigative unit in Columbus said they cited the club for solicitation for prostitution, sale of liquor and beer to nonmembers and an agent or employee possessing dangerous drugs.
A hearing before the Liquor Control Commission is pending. The club could be fined or suspended or have its liquor permit revoked. Phister said police have raided the club twice in the past year for alleged gambling activity, but not for prostitution.