Lake Zurich couple gets probation for drugs, prostitution

A Lake Zurich couple was placed on probation for 18 months Tuesday after they pleaded guilty to felony charges stemming from a police undercover operation.

Dana West, 29, pleaded guilty to prostitution, and Randy Peterson, 46, pleaded guilty to cocaine possession during a hearing before Circuit Judge John Phillips.

Lake County Assistant State's Attorney George Pappas said people had complained to police about drug activity at the couple's residence at 201 S. Buesching Road, Apt. 228.

An agent of the Lake County Metropolitan Group gained the confidence of the couple, Pappas said, and went to the apartment June 26.

West smoked some crack cocaine in the agent's presence, Pappas said, and told him she needed money very badly.

She offered to perform a sex act with the agent for $40, and said the money would have to be paid before the sex took place.

Peterson took the money and left the apartment, returning a short time later with a small amount of cocaine.

Other agents swept in and took the couple into custody without incident.

Pappas agreed to dismiss a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia in exchange for the pleas.

Phillips also ordered them to perform 50 hours of public service, and fined Peterson $600 and West $100.