Human trafficking is happening in plain sight. How Delaware is combating the trade - The News Journal

[Anitra Johnson]

• Delaware's Human Trafficking Unit announced the closure of the 25th illegal massage parlor
• The unit and other state agencies target businesses disguised as legitimate massage parlors
• Attorney General Kathy Jennings emphasizes that patronizing illicit massage businesses is not a victimless crime

Coinciding with the conclusion of Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January, Delaware's Human Trafficking Unit reached a milestone in its crackdown on illegal massage establishments. The state Department of Justice announced the closure of its 25th business found to be operating as a front for human trafficking.

Since being formed in 2022, the Human Trafficking Unit focused on dismantling Delaware’s illicit massage establishment industry. These businesses often disguise themselves as legitimate massage parlors while facilitating commercial sex services — many operating without the required state licenses.

With the assistance of partner state agencies such as the Division of Professional Regulation and the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the unit has executed search warrants targeting these operations across multiple cities in all three counties.

Last year, six businesses in Milford, Newark, Lewes, Wilmington and Dover were shut down due to illicit activities. In a recent crackdown on prostitution and patronization, the Human Trafficking Unit, along with the Delaware State Police, FBI and local law enforcement, charged 35 sex buyers in operations in Rehoboth, Wilmington, Newark, Dover and Georgetown. Among those arrested was Dover City Councilman William Hare.

Illegal massage businesses closed for human trafficking​

The 25 massage establishments closed during three years of efforts to stop human trafficking include:

2024

• Serenity Bodyworks - Milford
• Half Day Spa - Newark
• Aroma Massage - Lewes
• Asian Body Works Red Sun - Wilmington
• Best Asian Bodywork - Wilmington
• Dover Body & Soul - Dover

2023

• Rainbox 7 Spa - Newark
• loom Massage - Newark
• Royal Spa - Bear
• Nice Beauty Spa - Newark
• Relaxation Studio - Wilmington
• Lifhea Spa - Milton
• Xin Xin - Laurel

2022

• Rain Blossom Spa - Newark
• Sunshine Spa - Delmar
• Lea Spa - Lewes
• Joyful Spa - Lewes
• Heavenly Sky - Smyrna
• Spa Wellness - Dover
• Bubbly Asian Massage - Wilmington
• Oasis Reflexology - New Castle
• Woodside Spa - Woodside
• Lotus Blossom - Felton
• Blue Wave - Claymont
• Sophia Spa - Dover

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Efforts to educate the public and provide support​

In a statement marking the milestone, Attorney General Kathy Jennings emphasized that patronizing illicit massage businesses is not a victimless crime. Officials stress that most workers in these establishments are trafficking victims subjected to severe exploitation, making those who solicit these services complicit in their abuse.

In a non-law enforcement capacity, the Human Trafficking Unit works with landlords to educate them on their tenants’ licensing regulations and reporting illegal activities, holding property owners accountable for what happens on their premises. This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes public awareness campaigns, survivor support, community outreach and trafficking prevention.

In addition to enforcement, the Human Trafficking Unit collaborates with victim advocates and local nonprofits to provide support services to sex workers identified during operations. The state Department of Justice provides resources and information on its website.

You can contact Anitra Johnson at [email protected].