The Webster massage parlor was raided as part of a sex-trafficking investigation

WEBSTER — After months of surveillance and investigation, law enforcement officials from the Webster Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Worcester County Crime and Task Force executed a search warrant at Webster Asian Bodyworks on Main Street, suspected of facilitating sexual relations. services for a fee.

The operation, which involved Detective Constable Phil Hurton and other officers, resulted from meticulous online research and physical surveillance where men were seen entering and leaving the premises.

Many admitted to being offered and accepting post-massage sex after being stopped by officers.

The facility was found and advertised on numerous websites known for such illicit services, providing sufficient grounds for Dudley District Court to issue a search warrant.

Investigators indicate that these types of investigations are highly complicated, often related to organized crime and involve aspects of human trafficking.

In this particular case, an employee from China was found to be living and working at the site, a common situation where individuals are forced to repay debts to larger criminal outfits under coercive conditions.

While no charges have been filed against the employee, who refused support from both the Webster Police Community Outreach Advocate and a federal victim advocate from the FBI’s Chelsea Office, the case remains open and complex due to the typical challenges presented by unions international crimes. and uncooperative victims.

Webster Health CEO Camille Griffin presented the case to the Board of Health, which later declared the facility a public health nuisance.

This statement allowed Griffin to issue a cease and desist order effectively shutting down the business.

The multi-agency operation highlights the effective collaboration between various law enforcement agencies and the proactive role of the Webster City Health and Inspection Services Departments in dismantling suspected human trafficking and exploitation operations.

Further developments and possible charges are pending as the ongoing investigation continues to unravel the layers of this criminal enterprise.