Charleston Town Center Massage Parlor Closed After Complaint of Sexual Contact
On Thursday night, members of the Charleston Police Department’s Special Enforcement Unit raided Green Spa in the Charleston Town Center. According to WCHS TV, there have been multiple complaints alleging inappropriate conduct during massages.
As a part of an ongoing investigation, officers executed a search warrant to investigate the allegations. Let’s look at the specifics of the case and what you should do if you have been affected.
Details of the Police Investigation
The investigation began when customers alerted authorities to illegal and unprofessional behavior. These complaints suggested that employees at the establishment were engaging in sexual contact with clients.
That prompted law enforcement on Thursday night to execute a search warrant at Green Spa. According to Lt. Tony L. Hazelett, Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was also notified and provided information about the case.
While Lt. Hazelett stated that no arrests had been made, there have been differing accounts from the shopping center’s owner. Hull Property Group released a statement to a news station claiming that two individuals had been arrested.
The identities of these individuals have not been confirmed by police or the Hull Property Group.
What Could ICE Involvement Mean for the Case?
After the raid, many have wondered about the possible involvement of ICE. Unfortunately, there have been incidents where massage parlors coerce vulnerable individuals into engaging in illegal activities.
Some in the community worried about whether the spa may have exploited these workers. If that is the case, there could be more victims than the affected clients.
However, local law enforcement and federal authorities have made no further comments. Investigators are working to determine whether Green Spa’s alleged conduct was a single incident or is part of larger criminal activity in the community.
Currently, the Charleston Police Department’s investigation remains active. Local authorities have not released any information about whether additional charges may be filed or if other individuals could be implicated.
Hull Property Group has pledged to work with law enforcement. They have also expressed support in addressing the situation.
Hendrickson & Long, PLLC Offers Legal Help for Victims
This case highlights that sexual assault or abuse can occur at any place, regardless of whether it is a business, workplace, or school.
Everyone has the right to feel safe. They should never be put in a position where they are physically violated. Every business, especially those offering personal services, must maintain professional standards. Along with that, they need to provide a safe space for all clients and workers.
When these standards are violated, it breaks the community’s trust and leaves affected individuals feeling vulnerable. These incidents are more than isolated acts. These businesses have failed in their responsibility to protect individuals from criminal activity.
At Hendrickson & Long, PLLC, we understand the trauma that victims may feel after these experiences. No one should suffer from abuse, no matter the environment.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual misconduct in this incident or another in the community, we are available for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.