A man who operated a prostitution ring in the Omaha area for more than 10 years was sentenced to eight years in prison.
Richard Costanzo, 45, of Carter Lake ran a two-state prostitution ring known for promoting its services during major Omaha events, such as the College World Series.
The ring operated out of Costanzo's nearly $300,000 lakeside home in a gated Carter Lake community. As part of his plea, Costanzo forfeited the home and six vehicles.
Costanzo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit various prostitution offenses between 1997 and 2009, as well as two counts of money laundering. Costanzo knowingly caused a minor to engage in prostitution, according to information from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
In a related case, Costanzo pleaded guilty to witness tampering. He received an eight-year sentence for the crime. Both sentences, handed down last week, are to be served at the same time.
Costanzo ran his ring as an escort service in Nebraska and Iowa. The escorts were paid an hourly rate plus “tips” that could amount to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The prostitution ring operated from about February 1997 until the end of November 2010, federal prosecutors said. The business used several names, including Bare Assets and Bada Bing Girls.
His website for Dream Girls Inc. said: “Omaha can tend to be a boring place, so spice things up a bit with a night you'll never forget.” He also advertised on the outsides of cars, using magnetic signs to tout 24-hour adult entertainment.
Three others besides Costanzo have pleaded guilty in the case and await sentencing.
Contact the writer: 402-444-1279, jason.kuiper@owh.com
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