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WNDU.com Staff
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MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. (WNDU) - An investigation into illegal activity at massage parlors in Michigan City has led to the arrest of five women from Chicago on prostitution-related charges.
Police say undercover officers with the LaPorte County Drug Task Force booked massages at multiple businesses. They say these undercover encounters provided the foundation for prostitution-related charges, leading to search warrants and a swift shutdown of the illegal operations.
According to police reports and charging documents obtained by WNDU.com, the accused massage parlors allegedly offered sexual favors for extra money.
The following individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the crackdown:
- 53-year-old Zhangping Chen (Prostitution, misdemeanor)
- 52-year-old Yiqun Chen (Prostitution, misdemeanor)
- 51-year-old Xiaozhi Zeng (Prostitution, misdemeanor)
- 45-year-old Lihong Zhu (Prostitution - Maintaining a Common Nuisance, felony)
- 39-year-old Juan Xiao (Prostitution, misdemeanor)
The illegal activity allegedly happened at the following locations:
- Elegant Massage & Spa (2707 Franklin Street)
- Green Spa (1416 Franklin Street)
- Ruby Massage (1706 E. U.S. 20)
In addition to cracking down on prostitution at the parlors, police say they are working to provide victims of exploitation with support through a variety of social services.
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to disrupting criminal enterprises while also recognizing that many individuals involved in these operations may be victims of exploitation,” said Michigan City Police Chief Marty Corley and Trail Creek Chief Marshal Steve Dick in a joint statement. “Our priority is not only to hold offenders accountable but also to offer support and resources to those in need.”
If you have any information regarding illegal activities at massage parlors or other businesses, you’re asked to submit an anonymous tip to the LaPorte County Drug Task Force by calling 219-873-1488.