Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson, together with New York City Police Commissioner William J. Bratton, today announced that 15 employees and managers of nine massage parlors in Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst were arrested on prostitution and promoting prostitution charges following a long-term investigation.
“We conducted these raids and made these arrests because the good people of Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst are sick and tired of these dens of prostitution, masquerading as legitimate businesses, popping up in our communities,” said Thompson
The sting operation on the store fronts began in January following community complaints made to Community Board 10, City Councilman Vincent Gentile and State Senator Marty Golden that the businesses were fronts for prostitution and blighted their neighborhoods.
Bay Ridge City Councilman Vincent Gentile
“I commend District Attorney Ken Thompson, the NYPD and all the agencies involved in this operation. Today we are sending a very strong and simple message: we will not stand for illegal activities at illegitimate or unlicensed massage parlors. These establishments are an embarrassment to and a scourge on our community. Thanks to tips and information from local residents, the District Attorney’s Office was able to build a strong case. Indeed, businesses like these have no place in our strong, safe and family oriented community. This is a big victory,” said gentile.
The store fronts shut down include: Fenny Beauty, 6701 11th Avenue; Happy Beauty/Lyn Spa, 7110 20th Avenue; On Hung Beauty Center, 7303 18th Avenue; Ocean Beauty Spa, 7312 18th Avenue; Yan Yan Spa, 7901B 17th Avenue; and Josomodo Spa “Happy”, 7401 New Utrecht Avenue.
