Six massage businesses shut down for suspected human trafficking – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

Investigation into Human Trafficking in Texas Massage Parlors

Overview

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is currently investigating six massage parlors across six Texas cities suspected of involvement in human trafficking. This investigation aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), aiming to eradicate forced labor and promote safe working environments.

Details of the Investigation

1. Ownership and Closure Orders
   • All six businesses are owned by Wanli Peng, Houston P&L Massage Therapy, PLLC, and Dallas Health Care Enterprise, LLC.
   • TDLR issued a six-month emergency closure order effective June 16, 2025.
   • The owners are prohibited from operating other massage establishments at these locations.
2. Incident Report and Arrest
   • A customer reported inappropriate touching by an employee to Plano Police.
   • An employee was arrested for prostitution after inappropriate conduct with an undercover officer.
3. Violations Found
   • Missing required client consultation documents at each location.
   • Advertisements offering sexual services linked to all establishments.
   • Employees living on-site and working without licenses.
   • Presence of sexual paraphernalia and role-playing costumes.

List of Affected Establishments

• Massage A+, 3211 W. Wadley Ave., Ste. 12, Midland, Texas
• Healing Garden Massage, 956 S. Fry Rd., Katy, Texas
• Massage Pro 1, 2150 FM 2920 Rd., Ste. 200, Spring, Texas
• Massage Invite, 2685 Highway 6 S., Houston, Texas
• Yu Spa, 2001 Coit Rd., Ste. 169, Plano, Texas
• YY Spa, 501 Birdwell Ln., Ste. 17, Big Spring, Texas

Background and Legislative Actions

• Owner Wanli Peng has prior violations and surrendered licenses for Morris Spa (Flower Mound) and Chi Kung Foot Spa (Dallas).
• Since late 2023, TDLR has issued 49 emergency orders related to human trafficking, affecting 68 locations and revoking 51 licenses.
• HB 3579, effective September 1, 2023, empowers TDLR’s executive director to issue emergency closure orders if evidence of human trafficking is found, supporting SDG 16 by strengthening institutional responses.

Community and Public Engagement

To support SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the public is encouraged to participate in combating human trafficking by reporting suspicious activities through the following channels:

• National Hotline for Human Trafficking: 1-888-373-7888
• Text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733)
• Emergency situations: Call 911 immediately
• File complaints on suspected TDLR-regulated businesses: TDLR Complaint Form

Conclusion

The ongoing investigation and legislative measures demonstrate Texas’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by combating human trafficking, promoting safe and decent work environments, and ensuring justice and strong institutions. Continued vigilance and community involvement remain critical in eradicating human trafficking and supporting vulnerable populations.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 5: Gender Equality – The article highlights issues related to exploitation and abuse, which disproportionately affect women and girls, linking to the goal of achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The investigation into human trafficking and exploitation in massage parlors relates to promoting sustained, inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The enforcement actions, legislation, and law enforcement involvement connect to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice, and building effective institutions.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 5 – Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual exploitation.
2. SDG 8 – Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
3. SDG 16 – Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.
4. SDG 16 – Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

• Number of emergency closure orders issued: The article mentions 49 emergency orders issued since late 2023, which can be used as an indicator of enforcement activity against human trafficking.
• Number of license revocations: The revocation of 51 illicit massage establishment licenses serves as a measurable outcome of regulatory action.
• Number of investigations and complaints filed: The process of filing complaints and investigations initiated by TDLR and law enforcement can be tracked as indicators of responsiveness and detection.
• Legislative measures enacted: The passing and enforcement of HB 3579 reflects institutional commitment and legal frameworks to combat trafficking.
• Use of national hotline and reporting mechanisms: The availability and utilization of the National Hotline for Human Trafficking and other reporting tools can be indicators of public awareness and engagement.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: nbcdfw.com