Undercover sting at NW Harris Co. strip club nets 14 arrests

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Fourteen people were arrested in an undercover operation at a northwest Harris County strip club, say authorities. Drugs, weapons and cash were also seized.

According to the Harris County Sheriff's Office, the operation was the culmination of a months-long investigation of the 'Joy of Houston' Gentleman's Club at 7004 Charles Road. The investigation began after residents complained to the sheriff's office about possible illegal activity, specifically prostitution and drug use, happening inside the business.

The neon lights and massive signs beckon people to the strip club just off FM 529. Bhupinder Singh, who prays at a Sikh temple nearby praises the work of law enforcement.

"What kind of people do you see in strip clubs? What kind of morale? It's not ago is thing to have near religious places," Singh told Eyewitness News.

The fourteen people were arrested for various charges, including prostitution, sexually oriented business regulation violations and possession of a controlled substance. One person was arrested for having an outstanding warrant.

Eyewitness News has learned the Harris County Attorney's Office is looking at the club for possible civil action. The office often sues "nuisance" businesses in an effort to shut them down.