What's next for massage parlors raided in Springfield, and number of victims - KY3

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) -- Some Asian massage parlors raided in Springfield are still open for business. We found at least two open Tuesday while prosecutors continue their investigation that could shut them down for good.

KY3 News learned even without felony charges filed that would close them all down, the raid was still a win. Authorities say they rescued ten victims, counseled them, and they will soon be living a better life.

We got our first look inside a few of the Asian massage parlors in Springfield, fronting as just that. But instead, they forced employees to do much more sexual services they didn't want to do-- and many were living inside.

"They were here until like very late," said neighboring business owner Kristina Yelisey. "So I was like maybe they sleep over here."

The business owner next door was right.

"In the back, they hung their laundry and I was like that's a little suspicious for me," said Yelisey.

Phoenix Massage on East Republic is just one parlor we found still operating. Eventually, the businesses might be closed down altogether.


"I certainly anticipate more serious charges to come," said Greene County Prosecutor Dan Patterson. "We are working, but we do not have a timetable."

Patterson says there's much more evidence to pour over. Either way, those passionate about eradicating trafficking say the raid is a win.

"I'm not at all surprised that it has happened here," said Dr. Rachael Herrington.

She founded Stand Against Trafficking in 2012. She says public education is key. You will see the organization's ads on magazines in every hotel in town.

"There are cases of teens being trafficked even while they are still living at home," said Dr. Herrington. "We get cases of domestic trafficking as well."

She says beware sex trafficking doesn't always look like an international victim at a parlor. It's a common domestic problem, even in rural America.

"A young girl said I was trafficked and I never left my city," said Dr. Herrington. "The parents just think they are spending the night with a friend, but actually they are being prostituted out. People will go onto social media and pretend they are a modeling agency or something like that."

The raids last week turned up about ten victims. They were taken in by an agency that provided food, clothing, shelter, and counseling. The agency will get them back where they need to go. Dr. Herrington says it's an issue of supply and demand. As long as men are willing to buy sexual services, there will likely be other businesses popping up in their place.


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