A San Antonio massage parlor closed by authorities amid human trafficking investigations.
Three massage parlors in San Antonio were ordered to temporarily shut down due to serious allegations of human trafficking. This emergency closure, effective from January 21, 2025, comes after investigations revealed suspicious activities connected to the establishments. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) launched the investigation following complaints about illicit practices, ultimately prohibiting the owners from operating these businesses for six months. This action highlights ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Texas.
In a surprising turn of events, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has ordered a temporary shutdown of three massage businesses located in San Antonio. This action comes in the wake of serious allegations surrounding human trafficking and illegal activities connected to these establishments.
The emergency closure became effective on January 21, 2025, and it’s set to last for a duration of six months. The three affected massage parlors can be found at the following addresses:
According to TDLR officials, the owners of these establishments, identified as Rudy E. Lopez and Huang Ping Lopez, are now prohibited from operating any other massage parlors at these locations during the closure period. This action marks a significant step in tackling the ongoing issues with human trafficking in the state.
The investigation was sparked back in June 2024 when a complaint was submitted, claiming that sexual activity was occurring at one of the massage locations. Following this tip-off, TDLR launched a thorough investigation. Investigators found several *dubious websites* housing reviews about the services offered in these parlors.
Things took a more serious turn when the San Antonio police conducted an undercover operation at the 1007 Northwest Loop 410 location in November 2024. It was during this operation that TDLR uncovered a disturbing scenario: an unlicensed employee was reportedly performing massage services, and evidence suggested she was living at the parlor while offering sexual services.
The plot thickened when investigators discovered that one employee, previously arrested for prostitution at the 9386 Huebner Road location, had ties to the 1007 Northwest Loop 410 establishment. This connection only added more weight to the ongoing investigation. As part of a detailed search, investigators found both used and unused condoms, lubricants, and even lingerie at the 1007 Northwest Loop 410 location, indicating that illegal activities were being conducted there.
This recent order marks the 17th emergency closure since a new state law went into effect in September 2023, allowing TDLR to step in if there is suspicion of human trafficking. Notably, this is the first instance of multiple establishments owned by the same individuals facing closure under this law.
As it stands, these temporary closures will remain in effect until July 2025. The law—known as HB 3579—aims to empower TDLR to take swift action against businesses suspected of engaging in human trafficking activities.
As TDLR oversees 38 business and occupational licensing programs with nearly 1,000,000 licensees in Texas, they are committed to ensuring safety and compliance in the community. The hope is that by closing these establishments, they can prevent further illegal activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
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