WNDU - Police are investigating several massage businesses for allegedly running human trafficking and sexual solicitation operations out of their stores. On Monday afternoon, the St. Joseph County Police Dept. Joseph County. Michigan Street in South Bend. The residence that was searched is on Buckhorn Drive in South Bend. Police say all properties are owned or operated by the same individual. Investigators interviewed 9 business customers and 12 suspected female victims, along with business owners and managers.
Multiple women were living inside each business location. Interviews of the women were conducted by a Chinese Mandarin interpreter. Through the interpreter, investigators were able to confirm that at least some of the women had been trafficked and were being held and forced to work against their will.
Multiple women also confirmed that sexual activity had occurred with customers. Currently, at least two women requested help, have been removed from the business location, are being provided aide, and will be assisted returning to their country of origin. Redman said St. Joseph County Police recently met with federal prosecutors and federal agencies about potentially forming a human trafficking task force.
At this time, no arrests have been made, but the investigation remains ongoing. Stay with 16 News Now as we continue to follow this developing story both on-air and online. Skip to content.
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