Prostitution charges against local spas

WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) - A six-month long investigation has led to the shutdown of several local Asian spas.

Several local police departments and federal agents executed search warrants at spa locations in West Seneca, Lancaster, Depew, and Cheektowaga.  Search warrants were also executed at two apartment buildings used by the owners of the spas.

Authorities say the investigation primarily focused on prostitution and human trafficking.

Items seized in the warrants included financial documentation, business records, immigration documents and proceeds from illegal activities.  Approximately $45,000.00 cash was discovered in multiple locations.

Charges of promoting prostitution in the 3rd degree were placed against the two individuals responsible for operating the spas.  They are not yet in custody and their names are not being released at this time due to a possible flight risk.

The locations which were shut down today are:

Eastern Cozy Spa, 1889 Union Rd. West Seneca

Rising Sun Acupressure Therapy, 4038 Clinton St., West Seneca

AAA Acupressure, 4976 Transit Rd., Lancaster

Golden Spa, 4534 Clinton Street, West Seneca

VIP Green Spa, 5823 Transit Rd., Depew

VIP Acupressure Spa, 3507 Union Rd., Cheektowaga