Massage Parlor Busts Not Over Yet, Community Urged To Keep Eyes Open
The investigation that led to a massive bust that saw the arrest of 19 people charged with sex trafficking and prostitution-related charges at various day spas and massage parlors in Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst isn’t over yet. The Brooklyn Daily Eagle is reporting that the bust only represented the first phase of the operation.
As we previously reported, a joint operation by the NYPD and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office led to a crackdown of a dozen businesses believed to be operating illegal prostitution and sex trafficking operations. The original investigation was spurred on by community members who were suspicious of racy online ads and the late hours the various day spas and massage parlors were keeping. Brooklyn DA Charles Hynes promised increased vigilance against suspected sex traffickers.
“We are committed to stopping the illegal activities of these criminal locations and to restoring confidence and safety to the communities involved. I will continue the fight against promoting prostitution, as well as all the crimes that flow from these activities,” Hynes said.
With the investigation taking nearly a year to undertake, State Senator Marty Golden thanked local residents for showing patience as the shady sex spots continued to operate.
“I know that people wanted these places shut down as fast as possible. But when you investigate a crime like this, it takes time. You have to send undercover people there. A money offer has to be made. It doesn’t happen one, two, three,” Golden told the Daily Eagle.
Golden also urged community members to remain vigilant and keep authorities informed to stop future illegal activities from flourishing.
“What we have to do is continue to go after these individuals. The people of this community are the eyes and ears of the community. If they see something, they should say something,” Golden said.
