Fear that 'couples' hotel may bring crime

MIDLOTHIAN, Ill., July 15 (UPI) -- Groundbreaking is scheduled this month for a Chicago-area getaway hotel for couples, despite residents' concerns it would attract prostitution, officials said.

Ambiance Inn and Suites, marketed as a romantic place for couples, will be built in Midlothian, the SouthtownStar reported Thursday.

The hotel's developer, Frank Sottrel, said a hotel with the same theme in another suburb owned by him and his family has seen no crime problems.

Last year, nearby residents responded to Midlothian officials' announcement about the upcoming hotel, saying they thought the hotel would attract drug dealing as well as prostitution.

Sottrel said any criminal activity would be thwarted by membership requirements, gated security, video surveillance, and a limit of two people to a room.