A Royal Den of Vice: Notorious hotel finally shut down, but why did it take nine years to do it?

Phoenix, Arizona: In a story chock-full of sleaze, vice and crime, a notorious hotel in Phoenix has been shut down following a lengthy multi-agency investigation that uncovered its role as a hub for drug trafficking and prostitution.

The operation, led by Phoenix police and the FBI, culminated with the closure of the Royal Inn, a property located near Bethany Home Road and I-17. Arrest warrants have been issued for the hotel’s owner, Varsha Patel, and its manager, Nilam Patel, for their involvement in the illicit activities.

The investigation, which began in 2015, was initiated after Phoenix police received multiple complaints from local residents regarding the suspicious activities surrounding the hotel. Neighbors had long observed a constant stream of cars and scantily clad young women outside the building.

"It was like a drive-through for drugs and prostitution," one local resident told 12News.

According to federal authorities, the Royal Inn operated just steps away from residential neighborhoods and schools, posing a serious threat to the safety of children and families in the community.

US Attorney officials confirmed that the hotel’s owner and manager were aware of the illegal activities but continued to operate the establishment for profit. “They knowingly and willingly allowed these activities to take place, creating a marketplace for crime in the heart of a neighborhood,” said a spokesperson from the US Attorney’s office.

Authorities conducted undercover operations over several years, frequently interacting with the Patels in an attempt to curtail the criminal operations. Despite their efforts, the illegal activities persisted. On Tuesday morning, the US Attorney's office announced that the property had been seized and that warrants for the arrests of Varsha and Nilam Patel are pending. The Patels face charges of permitting drug dealing and prostitution on their premises, as well as laundering money generated from these activities.

Authorities explained that the almost decade-long delay in shutting down the Royal Inn was due to the complexity of the investigation. “There were many moving parts, and we wanted to ensure everything was done correctly,” officials stated.

Councilwoman Betty Guardado said in a statement: "For years, my office and members of the community have prioritized addressing the problems associated with the Royal Inn, including prostitution, drug dealing, and rising crime rates. In February of 2022, at my urging, in coordination with my office, the community established the Berkley Square Neighborhood Association specifically to tackle these serious concerns.

"The closure of the Royal Inn has been a critical piece missing from our strategy to restore safety in the neighborhood. The community has long called for action against a property owner who has allowed criminal activities to thrive on his premises."