6 Red Flags To Watch For At Massage Parlor Or Spa | SBWD Law (2024)

6 Red Flags To Watch For At Massage Parlor Or Spa | SBWD Law (1)

Sexual Assault 4/27/2022

Signs of Sex Trafficking or Sexual Abuse at Massage Parlors and Spas

Sex trafficking and abuseis a rampant problem in Maryland and throughout the United States. Illicit massage parlors often hide tragic realities of abuse and exploitation. To an unsuspecting consumer, it can be difficult to tell whether a massage parlor or spa is legitimate or if they are operating an illegal sex trade.

At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A. we represent victims of sexual abuse and sex trafficking. Ourexperienced, compassionate lawyerscan help get you the help you need, including compensation to pay for counseling, physical pain, and emotional suffering.

If you suspect or know that a massage parlor is providing illegal services,contact our officeat(410) 685-2022to speak directly with a lawyer.

6 Signs That a Massage Parlor or Spa Is Engaged in Illicit Activities

There are an estimated9,000 illicit massage parlorsoperating in the United States. From the outside, most massage parlors look similar. It can be hard to tell whether it is a front for sex trafficking and whether staff or customers are being mistreated. However, there are certain signs that should serve as “red flags” for employees, customers, and the community.

The most important thing to remember is thatif you see something, say something. Whether you are an employee, patron, or concerned citizen, you can help shed light on the atrocities that occur behind closed doors.

Here are 5 “red flag” signs to look out for:

1. Open 24 Hours or Advertises Late Night Services

If the massage parlor or spa is open 24 hours or advertises that it is available “late night,” it could be a sign that the services are not legitimate. In raids conducted by law enforcement across the country, massage parlors that were fronts for prostitution rings or erotic services often had neon signs advertising that they were open late at night.

Men coming and going at all hours of the day is also a sign that the spa may be offering illegal services. Other massage parlors that were later part of criminal investigations also had advertisements in their windows for “special services.”

2. Only Accepts Cash

Does the massage parlor or spa only accept cash? A business that operates in cash only is usually problematic. Cash leaves less of a paper trail and can help the company not only avoid taxes, but also fly under the radar of law enforcement.

Was the masseuse or person performing the service allowed to handle the cash? Women at illicit massage parlors are generally extremely vulnerable, and usually being exploited. If they are not allowed to take payment, it could be an indication that they are being mistreated.

See Also
Long Island

3. No Intake Paperwork

Other indications may be that they do not require any intake paperwork. Most spas will want to make sure that there are no health concerns before performing any services. Failure to request a brief medical history or other questionnaires is a red flag.

4. Listed on Erotic Review Sites

After theAtlanta spa shootings, USA Today conducted an in-depth investigation on illicit massage parlors. The shooter claimed that he had chosen the parlors because they “provided an outlet for his addiction to sex.” All 3 of the spas involved in the shootings were listed on the erotic review site Rubmaps.

Look at website reviews to see if they mention that the massage parlor or spa offers:

  • Erotic services
  • Sexual services
  • Extra services
  • Special services

Also, if you see mention that the parlor is “full service” or it is referred to as a “sex spa,” it may be a brothel or another illegal operation. In far too many cases, these businesses are part of large scale sex trafficking webs that work in conjunction with one another throughout a state or region.

If you believe that the massage parlor or spa may be offering sexual services, contact our office. If you are in imminent danger, contact the police and one of oursex trafficking lawyers. We will stand by your side during the police investigation, ensuring that law enforcement does not minimize your statement or the abuse that you experienced.

5. Doors Are Locked, or Customers Must Be Buzzed In

If customers are standing out front waiting to be buzzed in or if the doors are locked during regular business hours, this should make you pause.

Most legitimate spas and massage parlors offer inviting, serene lobbies for customers to wait. They may be well-lit with warm lighting or allow ample natural light in through glass windows and doors. Spas with locked doors with customers that frequent late at night may be unlicensed or worse, harboring young women forsexual abuse and exploitation.

If you have been sexually mistreated, abused, or are a sex trafficking victim, please contact our office immediately.We can help you understand your rights and hold responsible parties liable for their actions.

6. The Business Looks Unclean Inside or Out

Law enforcement raids of massage parlors that were confirmed to be engaged in illegal activities had a number of things in common. For instance, many refused services to women or catered mainly to male customers. The inside of the business was usually dark and unkempt. Women wore little to no clothing and there was evidence that many of them were living there.

These questions may help to determine whether there is abuse or mistreatment at the spa:

  • Are the doors and windows covered by signs, obscured, or blacked out?
  • Are the women scantily clothed?
  • Are there signs that the owners or women are living there?
  • Is the business dark or dirty inside?
  • Are there signs clearly stating that no sexual services are offered?

It is never too early to bring up concerns about an illicit massage parlor. If there is commercial sex or prostitution happening, it must be stopped. Many of these businesses are designed to withstand police raids. They are movable and interconnected, with little to no evidence of the actual owners.

What to Do If You Suspect Sexual Abuse or Mistreatment at a Massage Parlor

If you suspect something is wrong or you have been victimized, contact our office for afree, confidential consultation. We are dedicated to helping those who have been abused and exploited. Our lawyers know the lifetime of devastation that sex trafficking and sexual abuse can cause. Let us help you fight the perpetrators of this egregious offense.

Call our office today at(410) 685-2022for the honest, dedicated representation you deserve. Too often, women who are forced into sex trafficking or who suffer unthinkable sexual abuse end up facing serious criminal charges. Our lawyers can help make sure that your story does not get diminished or devalued.

6 Red Flags To Watch For At Massage Parlor Or Spa | SBWD Law (2024)

FAQs

6 Red Flags To Watch For At Massage Parlor Or Spa | SBWD Law? ›

Red Flag which is also a contraindication: Client presents with lower back pain and radiating pain down one leg and also reports of having changes in bowel and bladder control. This is a Red Flag and a contraindication.

What are the red flags for massage parlors? ›

The Indicators
  • Any sexual or erotic services are provided, or they advertise on illicit websites.
  • The providers are wearing very little clothing.
  • They refuse to service females.
  • You have to buzz in to get into the business.
  • The providers are not allowed to handle their own cash.
  • The providers speak very little to no English.

What are red flags in massage therapy? ›

Red Flag which is also a contraindication: Client presents with lower back pain and radiating pain down one leg and also reports of having changes in bowel and bladder control. This is a Red Flag and a contraindication.

How to tell if a massage parlor is a sting? ›

These questions may help to determine whether there is abuse or mistreatment at the spa:
  1. Are the doors and windows covered by signs, obscured, or blacked out?
  2. Are the women scantily clothed?
  3. Are there signs that the owners or women are living there?
  4. Is the business dark or dirty inside?
Apr 27, 2022

What not to do at a massage parlor? ›

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
May 29, 2021

What is considered inappropriate during a massage? ›

Examples of crossing boundaries include inappropriate jokes, comments about the body, rubbing high on the inner thighs, touching underwear with their hands, or making contact with the genital region.

How do you tell if your massage therapist is into you? ›

Changes In Behavior

At this point, the therapist might not be fully aware of the attraction, leading them to act on emotions they would otherwise keep in check. The therapist might seem more flirtatious, and even seductive. You might find the session dwells on personal conversations, instead of focusing on treatment.

What are 5 red flag symptoms? ›

Examples of red flag symptoms in the older adult include but are not limited to: fever, sudden unexplained weight loss, acute onset of severe pain, neural compression, loss of bowel or bladder function, jaw claudication, new headaches, bone pain in a patient with a history of malignancy or that awakens the patient from ...

What are the red flag indicators? ›

AML red flags are warning signs, such as unusually large transactions, which indicate signs of money laundering activity. If a company detects one or more red flags in a customer's activity, it should pay closer attention. In many cases, companies have to submit suspicious activity reports to authorities.

What is potential red flags? ›

A red flag refers to some warning signal that points to a potential threat, real or perceived—and which warrants further investigation. In investing, a red flag is a threat to a company's share price, which can appear on a company's financials, via headlines, or through social media.

What happens during a massage parlor raid? ›

These crackdowns typically take the form of “sting” operations. In a prostitution sting, police will first pose as customers to observe the business. Then, they return in force to arrest patrons, business owners and the employees who are engaging in sexual acts in exchange for money.

What can you catch from a massage parlor? ›

Massage parlor disease risks
  • an acute inflammatory condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammation from an injury.
  • an infectious illness, such as flu or hepatitis.
  • skin disorders, including herpes simplex, tinea, and scabies.
Jan 14, 2022

What is a table shower? ›

A table shower, also known as a Vichy shower, is a spa treatment that involves lying on a waterproof table while multiple shower heads positioned above release streams of warm water over your body.

What body parts should be avoided during massage? ›

These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage? ›

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

What do men wear during a full body massage? ›

You'll either undress to your underwear or down to the nude. It's really whatever you're comfortable with.

Are nuru massages legal in the US? ›

A nuru massage is a "restricted activity" in California. That is, the state regulates who can receive payment for touch, and under what conditions. Massage therapists must have a license to practice, as do other health professionals who touch their clients (e.g. dentists, nurses, etc.). But, it is totally legal!

What are yellow flags in massage? ›

Examples of Yellow Flags: • Belief that pain and activity are harmful. • 'Sickness behaviours' (like extended rest) • Low or negative moods, social withdrawal. • Psychological and emotional distress.

What is the ultimate boundary violation in massage therapy? ›

A boundary violation occurs when a therapist crosses the line of decency and integrity and misuses his/her power to exploit a client for the therapist's own benefit. Such may involve exploitative business (e.g., operating outside of one's scope of practice) or sexual violations.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended? ›

Contagious diseases such as the cold or the flu. Recent operations or acute injuries. Severe, unstable hypertension. Local contagious or irritable skin conditions.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 6256

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Birthday: 1996-05-10

Address: Apt. 425 4346 Santiago Islands, Shariside, AK 38830-1874

Phone: +96313309894162

Job: Legacy Sales Designer

Hobby: Baseball, Wood carving, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Lacemaking, Parkour, Drawing

Introduction: My name is Dean Jakubowski Ret, I am a enthusiastic, friendly, homely, handsome, zealous, brainy, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.