Three arrested in human trafficking and money laundering operation in Michigan
- A six-month investigation by SONIC uncovered a human trafficking operation involving several massage parlors in Southeast Michigan.
- Victims, many of whom were transported from out of state, reported being coerced into providing sexual services against their will.
- Three individuals have been arrested in connection with managing the operation, part of ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in the area.
In Southeast Michigan, a multi-agency investigation has culminated in the arrest of three suspects linked to a human trafficking and money laundering operation. This extensive six-month investigation, led by the South Oakland Narcotics Intelligence Consortium (SONIC), focused on several massage parlors in Novi, Farmington, and Livonia. Findings revealed that women, many transported from out of state, were allegedly forced into providing commercial sex acts while masquerading as legitimate massage services. Reports indicated these women were coerced into working long hours and had their earnings taken from them. The investigation began with a confidential tip and was aided by local police departments, including those from Novi, West Bloomfield, and Farmington Hills. As police uncovered more about the operation, they learned that victims faced oppressive conditions, working 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, often without any knowledge of English or transportation. Additionally, many victims had no means to escape their circumstances, which kept them vulnerable and dependent on their traffickers. As the investigation progressed, detectives arrested three individuals suspected of orchestrating the criminal enterprise. Among them were two women, Runping "Lisa" Huang and Chunxiu "Eva" Xu, who faced multiple charges, including human trafficking and transporting individuals for prostitution. Huang and Xu were arraigned on May 31 and are being held at the Oakland County Jail on substantial cash bonds. Their arrests are part of a broader initiative to confront and address human trafficking issues in the region. This case exemplifies ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Oakland County, where a significant number of human trafficking cases have been reported recently. Since last November, 27 cases have surfaced, highlighting the persistent nature of this crime. Officials are committed to addressing the deeply rooted issues surrounding human trafficking, emphasizing that many victims have been silenced by their circumstances. With law enforcement agencies collaborating, the goal remains to eradicate human trafficking and provide a safer environment for potential victims. Prosecutors and officials are determined to hold traffickers accountable while advocating for victims to encourage them to come forward and seek help.