Plaintiffs testify in case alleging Red Roof Inn knew of sex trafficking at metro Atlanta locations

The Red Roof Inn location at the intersection of Buford Highway and N. Druid Hills Rd. is one of two named in an ongoing civil lawsuit claiming the company overlooked blatant human trafficking on the property. (Courtesy of reservationdesk.com)

Lawyers for the plaintiffs are wrapping up their case in a civil trial alleging Red Roof Inn neglected to act against sex trafficking the company knew was taking place on its properties.

The two weeks of trial thus far have included testimony from Red Roof employees, corporate executives, trafficking experts, law enforcement, and victims themselves.

Emma Hetherington is director of the University of Georgia Law School’s Child Endangerment and Sexual Exploitation clinic.



She said that based on the victims’ testimonies, there was no way the hotel chain could have been unaware of what was going on.

“They discussed trash cans in the hotel rooms full of condoms bloody towels, and having to ask housekeeping again and again and again for new towels and to clear the trash bins,” Hetherington said.

Red Roof Inn said in a statement they deny the allegations, condemn sexual trafficking and mandate employee training on the subject.

Hetherington said she expects the defense to begin presenting its case this week and the jury could get the case as early as next week.

Christopher Alston contributed to this report.