Cranston police shut down suspected illegal massage parlors

Cranston Police Headquarters. File photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

CRANSTON, R.I. (AP) — A monthslong investigation into numerous reports of suspicious activity at six massage businesses in Cranston has resulted in 11 arrests and uncovered evidence of human trafficking and prostitution.

Police Col. Michael Winquist said in a news release Friday that officers with the department’s Special Victims Unit on Thursday executed six court-authorized search warrants at the businesses suspected of providing massage services without a license.

Some of those arrested on the misdemeanor charges may be victims.

Winquist says those people are receiving assistance that will help them escape their situations.

One woman was charged with permitting prostitution.

 

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