Fort Worth massage parlor ordered to close in investigation of suspected human trafficking
A Fort Worth massage parlor has been ordered by the state to close for six months during an investigation of suspected human trafficking, authorities said.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation issued the emergency closure order for Xiadoian Piao, also doing business as Foot Spa and Tao Spa, at 1233 Woodhaven Blvd. The order took effect on Jan. 21, the department said in a news release.
In mid-November, inspectors from the Department of Licensing and Regulation conducted a routine inspection at the spa and found “items that are indicators of commercial sexual services, as well as packages of emergency contraceptives and an ATM in the lobby,” officials said in the release.
“One of the employees was wearing provocative clothing, and there was evidence that people were living in the establishment, which is not allowed under state law,” the release states. “The establishment was also advertising on illicit websites. At the time of the inspection, the establishment was not licensed as required.”
Under a state law that took effect in 2023, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation’s executive director can issue an emergency order to stop the operation of any massage business if the department’s staff or law enforcement believes human trafficking is occurring.
This was the 19th emergency order issued by the department since the law went into effect.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring can contact the National Hotline for Human Trafficking at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). If the situation is an emergency or you believe someone is in immediate danger, authorities say you should call 911.
To file a complaint online against a Texas business that you suspect may be participating in human trafficking, visit the department’s website at tdlr.texas.gov/complaints/
