Polk County, typically known for its lakes and citrus groves, saw a different side during a two-day undercover operation earlier this week. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Vice Unit conducted a sting at several massage parlors, leading to the arrest of 21 women on prostitution-related charges. The arrests came from 12 different establishments across Davenport, Dundee, Lakeland, and Winter Haven, according to
WFLA
.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the operation’s goal, stating, “We want our communities to be safe and free from illegal activities, and criminals who take advantage of people. These arrests are part of our ongoing efforts to hold those who break the law accountable. We’re focused on keeping our neighborhoods safe, and we’ll keep cracking down on businesses that operate outside the law.” Undercover detectives attempted to book legitimate massages, but 20 therapists allegedly offered sexual services instead, according to
Daily Ridge
.
One incident escalated when Jinxia Huang attacked an undercover detective after her advances were rejected, as reported by
FOX 13
.
Sheriff Grady Judd confirmed that all the women arrested were Asian from the Republic of China, with three being U.S. citizens and the rest holding work visas, as per
FOX 13 news
. The operation, called “Operation Skin So Soft,” could lead to the women being deported, as Judd noted coordination with federal agencies to revoke their visas. Many of the women claimed to be part of a traveling circuit, suggesting a transient lifestyle.
Judd elaborated on the new regulations requiring these establishments to maintain records of their clientele and practitioners, which may prompt additional regulatory charges as many businesses were found wanting in this regard.
Heartland Crime Stoppers is urging the public to report any information about illegal activities or suspected human trafficking within the Polk County massage parlor industry. People can submit tips anonymously by calling 1-888-400-TIPS (8477) or through the Crime Stoppers website.
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