Burleson massage parlors forced to close for investigation of suspected human trafficking
The owners of two Burleson massage parlors have been ordered to close their establishments for six months while they are being investigated for suspected human trafficking, according to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
The parlors were given an immediate closure notice Monday, according to a TDLR news release.
The department received a consumer complaint through local law enforcement about Top A-Massage, located at 344 SW Wilshire Blvd, alleging women were wearing lingerie and living at the salon.
Investigators found that the business was featured on illicit websites offering sexual services at the parlor’s location. During an on-site investigation at Top A-Massage in September, an investigator found several indicators of possible human trafficking, the release says.
The massage parlor’s owner was wearing provocative clothing, according to the release. The investigation also found a room at the parlor set up as sleeping quarters for two people and numerous items that showed people were living at the establishment.
There was at least one unlicensed massage therapist providing massages at the parlor, according to the release.
A second business, Best Massage at 333 NW Hillery St., was also reported to law enforcement over allegations of offering sexual services to customers, the Department of Licensing and Regulation said.
That business was also listed on illicit websites offering illegal services at the parlor, according to the TDLR’s investigation.
While conducting an on-site investigation at Best Massage, authorities found video monitors in each massage room that had a video feed from cameras in the reception area. Investigators also found several bags of clothing and a large amount of food in the kitchen area, the release says.
The investigation revealed the parlor’s massage therapists worked long hours, but they denied living at the business. Only one of the therapists provided a home address, according to the release.
These emergency closure orders mark the ninth and 10th orders issued by the TDLR since HB 3579 went into effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
The state law allows the department to issue an emergency order halting the operation of any massage establishment if law enforcement or the department believe human trafficking is being committed at the location.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking can contact the National Hotline for Human Trafficking at 1-888-373-7888. A complaint regarding a business suspected of human trafficking can also be filed through the TDLR’s website.
