Lake Oswego police arrested two suspects after an investigation found that a local massage business may have been acting as a front for human trafficking.
Xiaoping Chen and Lihua Lin Kelsey have been charged with crimes including promoting prostitution associated with Flora Spa at 15630 Boones Ferry Road, according to a press release.
Detectives began to gather information last July indicating that Flora Spa was a front for prostitution and subsequently learned that the spa and some of its affiliates were involved in a trafficking operation that spread beyond Oregon. LOPD and other departments conducted multiple search warrants, along with the arrests.
“Throughout the investigation, LOPD Detectives have collaborated with several other law enforcement agencies and learned Flora Spa fit a pattern similar to other Sex Trafficking networks,” the press release reads. “These networks commonly exploit women from other countries and use front businesses to disguise prostitution in plain sight.”
The investigation identified at least 10 women compelled to work at the spa who police believe are victims of human sex trafficking. The police are working with organizations to provide support and services for the victims.
“The investigation of the illicit massage business is ongoing as detectives continue to contact subjects identified as receiving services at the location,” the press release read. “The police department is looking at strategies to help prevent this type of illicit massage business from opening in Lake Oswego in the future.”
If you have information about this case, call 503-635-0232 or submit an anonymous tip at https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/FormsLF/mNNS3?Case=23-4858.
Most Popular
Comments / 0