Investigation reveals more details about alleged prostitution at massage parlors - Eastern Progress

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EXETER TWP., Pa. – An investigation led authorities to raid two massage parlors in Berks County. The owner of one of the places is charged with promoting prostitution and related offenses, and authorities say their work isn't done yet.

Authorities say what appeared to be a legitimate massage parlor was allegedly a front for prostitution and other illicit activities.

"These businesses were eyesores in our community, not because what they looked like from the outside, but what we believe what was happening behind closed doors," said John Adams, Berks County district attorney.

At Kim's Massage on Perkiomen Avenue in Exeter Township, authorities say two confidential sources cooperated with law enforcement, confirming sex acts were being exchanged for money.

On Tuesday, police executed a search warrant at the property. They say they seized items linked to prostitution and its promotion.

They also say two women lived on site, and one of them told authorities she was hired under the guise of providing legitimate massage services. Authorities say neither woman nor the business were licensed by the state.

"Many times, the victims of human trafficking are the individuals who are committing prostitution, but they're only committing prostitution because they're being trafficked by others and they're forced into doing things," Adams said.

According to court documents, a website listed Kim's Massage as an escort agency. Investigators also cited online reviews referencing a term commonly associated with illegal sex acts.

Authorities say the owner, Lian Xiufang, is charged with four felony counts of promoting prostitution and other offenses. Police are also investigating a massage parlor near North 23rd Street in Mt. Penn Borough.

"I'm very pleased that we've put these businesses out of business," Adams said.

Xiufang is awaiting her preliminary hearing. Her bail is set at $500,000.