Federal prosecutors say Thomas Cramer, 40, enticed six girls under the age of 18 to work as prostitutes. The alleged crimes happened at Cramer’s residence and hotels in Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo. The incidents occurred between 2008 and February 2012.
“We were kind of shocked, our landlord was shocked and everyone was shocked,” explained Robert Bentley Wednesday night.
Bentley, one of Cramer's former neighbors said police raided Cramer’s Latta Road apartment roughly two years ago.
“People want to think sex trafficking happens in other countries and other communities, and in fact it’s happening in our community. So, it’s an opportunity to become aware of this problem,” said Mary Whittier, Executive Director of Bivona Child Advocacy Center.
Cramer allegedly charged customers up to $220 per hour. The Criminal Complaint further alleges that the defendant placed advertisements on Craigslist and adult web sites regarding the availability of the minor females for commercial sex acts.
If Cramer is found guilty, the maximum sentence is life in prison.
