Press Release from Coeur d’Alene Police Department
Over the course of the past several months, Detectives with the Coeur d’Alene Police Department have been investigating several local massage facilities for illegal sexual activity after receiving reports of unwanted sexual touching. Due to the nature of these crimes, prosecution in these cases is challenging and criminal charges were declined by local prosecutors. However, the nature and volume of the allegations was compelling enough for the City to revoke the business licenses at these establishments. Earlier today, working with the Municipal Services Department at City Hall, officers and detectives revoked the business licenses for five separate massage facilities as a result of this investigation.
Oriental Massage Spa, Red Sea Massage, Oriental Body Work, Asia Massage, and Chinese Bodyworks all had their business licenses revoked by the City of Coeur d’Alene due to reports of criminal sexual activity. Because of some of the reports, detectives also have concerns some of the employees of the massage facilities may be victims of sex trafficking.
The Coeur d’Alene Police Department supports local businesses and recognizes there are many legitimate professional massage facilities within our community. Businesses involved in criminal activities tarnish the reputation of legitimate businesses, victimize our citizens, and will not be tolerated. The Police Department investigates all crimes aggressively and will work to criminally charge any business owner, employee, or patron involved in criminal sexual activity.
Anyone with information about sexual activity at any of the above mentioned businesses is encouraged to contact Coeur d’Alene Police Detective Newbill at 208-292-5778.
