By JJ Hensley for The Arizona Republic on June 21, 2013—
“A business that police say uses pornography as a front for prostitution was the target of a late-night raid Thursday.
William James Hartwell, 52, the business owner, and eight women were arrested at the studio that police say ostensibly lured clients who want to star in their own adult films.
Officers quickly made entry into the business, operated by New Media Studios, located in an industrial area near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and immediately began escorting women out.
Some wore dresses and jeans, one woman had leopard-print pajamas, and another was visibly pregnant and told officers she was weeks away from giving birth.
Hartwell told an arresting officer that he was not surprised police showed up at his company’s door.
“We’ve been expecting you guys for a long time,” Hartwell said as he was escorted to a police car. “We run a safe, legal business.”
The raid marked the end of a six-month investigation.
Investigators learned of the business through a tip and began developing information that led them to believe the studio was selling more than photos and videos.”
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