Business owners react to massage parlor shutdowns in Coeur d'Alene - KHQ Right Now

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COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho – Five massage parlors in Coeur d'Alene have been shut down following allegations of unwanted sexual touching and potential sex trafficking. Local business owners are sharing their thoughts on the situation.

Matthew Sparkman, who opened a business with his wife about a year and a half ago across the street from one of the affected parlors, expressed his concerns. "Well it wasn’t your typical spa type of a look. It was always kind of open very late. They were there all day long with no signs just blinking lights saying massage massage massage," he said.

Sparkman noted that from the beginning, he found the spa suspicious.

Coeur d'Alene Police have indicated that these cases may involve sex trafficking. Kyle Foreman from the Grant County Sheriff's Office highlighted the importance of recognizing the signs of trafficking. "Human trafficking is a crime and we want to be able to help victims of human trafficking," he said.

Foreman advised the community to watch for signs of mental or physical abuse, such as bruising or branding. He emphasized that trafficking can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. "I think people need to be brave enough to act if they see someone who they think is the victim of human trafficking and human trafficking and impact adults, teenagers and children. It doesn't matter if you think the person might be the victim of human trafficking. Please call us and let them know," he added.

Sparkman expressed his surprise at the number of parlors involved. "I mean it’s a small town. We have here and to have five places get shut down in basically one day yeah that’s a little surprising," he said.

For those who suspect trafficking, there is a National Human Trafficking Helpline available. You can text "HELP" or "INFO" to 233733 for assistance.

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