The Denton County Sheriff’s Office Human Trafficking Unit worked alongside the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to conduct licensing inspections at 18 massage parlors from June 23 to June 26. Four massage parlors were shut down following an investigation into suspected human trafficking activity.

Investigation and Shutdown

The illicit massage parlor abatement operation targeted human trafficking and related criminal activity suspected at the businesses. Non-profit organizations, including Mosaic House Dallas and Denton County Friends of the Family, provided services to potential victims of trafficking.

Two people were detained for immigration status violations based on evidence collected during the inspections, and five aggravated promotion of prostitution cases were opened. One report of human trafficking is under investigation.

Police departments and Fire and Code Enforcement personnel in Lewisville, Carrollton, Flower Mound, and The Colony assisted with the operation. Chinese-speaking translators were provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Vermont State Police.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.