Manassas, Va. – In a coordinated effort that underscores the city’s commitment to protecting its families, Manassas City Police, together with fire‑marshal and regional law‑enforcement partners, closed six massage‑parlor‑type businesses and residential sites on Oct. 6. The operation targeted prostitution‑related offenses and uncovered victims of human trafficking.
Operation sparked by community tip
The investigation began after the Crime Solvers hotline received a tip from a concerned resident. Police swiftly moved to execute search warrants at multiple locations in Manassas, Fairfax County and Prince William County. During the searches, officers recovered several hundred thousand dollars in cash and extensive documentation that supported the prostitution and trafficking allegations.
Businesses shuttered and arrests made
The Virginia Fire Marshal’s Office officially shut down the six identified establishments, which were operating as massage businesses or private residences used for illegal activity. Three individuals were arrested and charged:
- Yanzhi Mei, 44, of Prince William County – charged with prostitution, sexual battery and aiding prostitution; held on a $2,000 bond.
- Yanwu Glick, 65, of Fairfax County – charged with aiding prostitution and keeping a bawdy place; held without bond.
- Stephen Smarr, 65, of Manassas – charged with keeping a bawdy place and aiding prostitution; held on a $3,000 bond.
All three face serious penalties under Virginia law for facilitating illegal sexual enterprises.
Police chief emphasizes community partnership
Chief of Police Douglas W. Keen praised the community’s role, stating, “We take these crimes seriously and are committed to addressing illegal activity in our community. This operation reflects the hard work of our staff, and I thank our partner agencies for their assistance. I am especially thankful to members of our community whose tips ultimately led to this operation.”
The bust sends a clear message that human‑trafficking and prostitution will not be tolerated in Northern Virginia. By acting swiftly on a citizen’s tip, law‑enforcement agencies demonstrated how vigilant neighborhoods can help protect vulnerable individuals and uphold public safety.
What this means for residents
Local families can feel reassured that their police department is actively pursuing illegal enterprises that threaten the moral fabric of the community. The seizure of cash and documents also provides valuable evidence for prosecuting traffickers and supporting victims as they seek recovery and justice.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about similar illegal activities to contact the Crime Solvers hotline or their local police department. Ongoing vigilance remains essential to safeguarding the well‑being of Virginia’s families.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
