Gov. Dan McKee has directed the state police to investigate whether R.I. Department of Motor Vehicles administrator Walter “Bud” Craddock had any knowledge or involvement in an alleged sex-for-pay operation busted at one of his rental properties, Target 12 has learned.
Last week Cranston police raided six properties as part of a sweeping investigation into suspected prostitution operations across the city. The properties included 1732 Broad St., which is owned by Craddock through his real estate holding company, LUC Realty Holdings LLC.
McKee now wants to take a closer look, expressing “grave concerns” over the allegations of human trafficking, Target 12 has confirmed.
“The buying and selling of human beings is a horrific and despicable practice, and we must do everything we can to protect victims and put a stop to it,” McKee spokesperson Alana O’Hare said in a statement. “This morning, the governor directed the Rhode Island State Police to ascertain all relevant facts and investigate whether the administrator committed any wrongdoing whatsoever related to this situation. The governor is fully committed to ensuring all resources are utilized to obtain all the facts in this disturbing case.”
Craddock, who previously served 26 years as a Cranston police officer, has denied knowledge of anything nefarious happening at the property, which he’s owned and rented to the same tenants since 2016. Police raided the building for the same reasons in 2017.
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