Nessel charges massage parlors in metro Detroit with human trafficking in major crackdown - Detroit Metro Times

[Steve Neavling]

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A fleet of Michigan State Police vehicles.

An international human trafficking ring allegedly forced women of Chinese and Korean origin into sexual exploitation at illicit massage parlors across Wayne and Macomb counties, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Friday.

The operation, one of the largest of its kind in Michigan, led to multiple arrests and the liberation of nearly a dozen victims, who were allegedly trafficked into forced labor and commercial sex.

"This operation has put an end to a significant human trafficking ring, as large as any we’ve uncovered in the State of Michigan," Nessel said. “These arrests, the takedown of four illicit massage parlors, and the liberation of these victims of human trafficking today in our communities were the result of an awesome effort by several law enforcement agencies. These charges and this operation make it clear that Michigan will be no harbor for the vile trafficking trade for forced labor, sexual or otherwise.”

The investigation, which began over the summer, culminated in a large-scale operation involving multiple law-enforcement agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Michigan State Police, and local police departments from St. Clair Shores, Sterling Heights, and Clinton Township. Search warrants were executed at four locations:

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  111 Healing Studio, St. Clair Shores (Harper near 12 Mile Road)
  
  
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  AM Healing Studio, Sterling Heights (near Metro Parkway and Mound)
  
  
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  Magic Health Spa, Detroit (Eight Mile and Lahser)
  
  
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  8 Star, Detroit (Eight Mile near I-75)
  

Authorities have arrested five individuals in connection with the alleged trafficking ring:

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  Jingyu Jin, a 45-year-old Chinese national and the alleged leader, faces multiple felony charges, including conducting a criminal enterprise, accepting earnings from prostitution, and money laundering.
  
  
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  Huazi Piao, charged with conducting a criminal enterprise, conspiracy, and keeping a house of prostitution.
  
  
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  Jon Villasurda, a Clinton Township resident, charged with criminal enterprise-related felonies and transportation for prostitution.
  
  
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  Oumar Lougue, a non-citizen from West Africa, and Ming Li, a 59-year-old undocumented immigrant, both face similar charges, including conducting a criminal enterprise and keeping a house of prostitution.
  

The charges were filed across multiple jurisdictions, including 40th District Court in St. Clair Shores and 36th District Court in Detroit.

During the operation, authorities freed the victims.

"We are steadfast in our commitment to combating crimes of trafficking and exploitation," HSI Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar said, pledging continued efforts to dismantle trafficking networks.

The takedown marks a significant step in Michigan’s efforts to combat human trafficking. Nessel’s office has spearheaded initiatives to crack down on forced labor and sexual exploitation, partnering with federal, state, and local agencies.

Anyone suspecting human trafficking or identifying a potential victim can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 888-373-7888 or text 233733 for confidential, 24/7 assistance.