MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. (WXYZ) — Police arrested a man for a human trafficking that involved two women. Donald Beauchamp, 31, was arrested at Rodeway Inn Monday, according to Madison Heights police.
Kelly Welsch, who is staying at the hotel, said she is worried.
"It’s definitely scary for them for sure," Welsch said.
The Rodeway Inn is off Stephenson Hwy. Madison Heights Police Chief Corey Haines says this was a significant arrest.
"With all the problems that we’ve had occurring at our hotels with the prostitution and human trafficking, this is another arrest we're able to prove these women are being trafficked and aren’t just there for prostitution purposes," Haines said.
Folks who live in Madison Heights say they don't want this happening in their community.
"Being in Madison heights for the past few years I’ve heard it happening in this area a lot and it’s definitely very shocking and surprising," Welsch said.
Police say a 21-year-old River Rouge resident and a 23-year-old Novi resident were victims associated with the case and weren’t at the hotel at their own will.
"We also believe that they were being forced to be there and forced by threats of violence," Haines said.
The Oakland County prosecutor is issuing several charges against Beauchamp, including prostitution and human trafficking-forced labor. People say they need to be more alert and keep a close eye on their community.
"I walk to work a lot and ride a bike," Welsch said. "So I’ve definitely been stopped before and so just hearing about that and this being a prime spot for human trafficking, it scares me a little bit."
Beauchamp was arraigned and given a $50,000 surety bond. He was ordered not to have any contact with the victims and to stay away from all hotels in Madison heights.
