New Chicago Dungeon Under Scrutiny
City Hall has paused operations of a business that functions as a “sex dungeon” while officials determine how it fits into the city’s regulations. The temporary shutdown follows a prior case involving Madame Priscilla Belle, who ran a high‑end brothel that drew thousands of clients and earned over a million dollars. Belle was later convicted of operating a prostitution ring on the West Side; despite claims of tax compliance, evidence revealed she arranged sex work for customers.
The Current Venue
The current establishment offers rooms for couples, friends, and events. It claims transparency about its model. A city commissioner explained that the venue blends multiple activities, all centered around sexual play. The business sits in a gray zone of the licensing code, making it unclear which category applies. Consequently, the department issued a temporary cease‑and‑desist order while it reviews relevant laws.
Potential Outcomes
- Duration of Pause: Depends on a new investigation.
- Mayor’s Role: The mayor’s office may tighten rules if the venue poses a community risk.
- Commissioner’s Focus: Understanding the business’s impact—whether it adds value or creates problems.
Historical Context
This is not the first time a Chicago dungeon faced legal scrutiny. In 2024, another kinky venue leveraged a county program that granted tax breaks to small storefronts with apartments. The owner saved nearly $300,000 in taxes by claiming part of the building was residential rather than commercial. The operator insisted the apartments were not used for business, which operated in a 1,450‑square‑foot retail space.
Investigation Goals
The city’s inquiry will examine:
- How these businesses operate.
- Compliance with existing laws.
- Potential for clearer guidelines on ventures that combine entertainment, sex work, and real‑estate benefits.
