In a sweeping crackdown on suspected illicit massage parlors, the Morgan Hill Police Department has shuttered 12 businesses accused of operating as fronts for illegal activity. According to a report by the Morgan Hill Police Department, this effort aimed to eliminate venues advertising sexual services under the guise of massage therapy.
Following a concerted push to regulate the massage industry more strictly, citing an influx in permit applications, Morgan Hill updated its municipal code in May 2024 and again in June 2025. These changes were intended to clearly distinguish lawful health care providers from those engaging in illicit activities. The "permitting process is extensive and thorough which demonstrates how seriously the city takes protecting the community from illegal activity," Sarah Ellingson, owner of Rooted Republic, a licensed massage therapy business in Morgan Hill, told the Morgan Hill Police Department.
The 18-month operation culminated in the closure of facilities accused of deceptive practices, including misrepresentation in their applications and the hosting of purported sexual activity, which were often incidentally promoted online. The businesses that have had permits revoked or applications denied were A&M Health Center, Angel Beauty Spa, Body Care Foot Spa, Body Care Massage, Elegant Foot Spa, Flower Day Spa, Laura Health Center, Lucky Spa, Morgan Hill Spa, New Times Massage, September Day Spa, and TWNS Spa.
