Pittsboro police have searched a local massage business after what they describe as a months-long investigation into reports of illegal sexual activity and concerns about possible human trafficking.
Officers executed a search warrant at Blue Jade Spa this week, following a probe that investigators say started with a complaint in October. Over roughly five months, they developed probable cause that the business might be involved in illegal sexual activity and that human trafficking could be a factor. As of Friday evening, police had not announced any arrests, and say the case is still active.
As detailed by The News & Observer, state records reviewed by the paper showed no massage-establishment license on file for Blue Jade Spa.
Hope for Justice, an international nonprofit that assists law enforcement in trafficking cases, has been working with Pittsboro police and other North Carolina agencies on related investigations. The group’s U.S. investigators say they help with online searches and conduct victim-centered interviews when local officers request support.
Licensing and oversight
North Carolina requires both individual massage therapists and massage establishments to be licensed. The state’s public “Verify a License” lookup tool is available through the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy, which also spells out the rules for getting and keeping a license.
However, the board does not have police powers to immediately shut down unlicensed parlors. That means criminal enforcement is left to police and prosecutors, as WBTV has reported in coverage of similar cases elsewhere in the state.
Legal implications
N.C. Gen. Stat. 14-43.11 defines human trafficking and classifies it as a felony. A violation involving an adult is a Class C felony, and penalties increase for crimes involving minors.
If charges are ultimately filed, the local district attorney’s office would bring any criminal counts. Investigators say they plan to coordinate with victim-service organizations to provide support to anyone identified as a potential victim.
Pittsboro police said in a news release that no arrests had been made as of Friday and that officers continue to gather evidence. Anyone with information is urged to contact Pittsboro police. Potential victims can reach the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, by text at 233733, or through the hotline’s online chat for confidential help and referrals.
