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Protesters: N. Phila. motel is ‘house of ill repute’

About 50 people staged a protest in front of a North Philadelphia motel this morning, calling the business across from an elementary school a haven for prostitution, narcotics dealing and drug use.

About 50 people staged a protest in front of a North Philadelphia motel this morning, calling the business across from an elementary school a haven for prostitution, narcotics dealing and drug use.

Led by State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas, the demonstrators gathered outside the Liberty Motel at Germantown Avenue and Westmoreland Streets, chanting, "The Liberty Motel must close."

"We are not interested in shutting down businesses," Thomas shouted through a loud speaker. "We do not need businesses that permit prostitution. We do not need businesses that permit drug dealing."

Thomas said residents have complained constantly over the last few years about prostitutes, drug dealers and drug users in and around the motel.

Motel management did not immediately respond to a request for comment.