by Methuen, Massachusetts – The City of Methuen has intensified its campaign against alleged human trafficking operations, shutting down three more spas just one day after Mayor D.J. Beauregard declared “a war on human trafficking.”
The latest closures bring the total number of shuttered establishments to five in less than a week, as city officials and police continue investigations into businesses suspected of operating as fronts for sex trafficking.
Three Spas Ordered Closed
On Tuesday, Methuen issued cease-and-desist orders to:
- Oriental Spa on Swan Street
- Yellow Lilly Day Spa on Baldwin Street
- Lavender Spa on Baldwin Street
According to Mayor Beauregard, inspectors discovered unlicensed activity, signs of habitation inside commercial spaces, and unsanitary conditions.
“It is freaking evil and that’s why we need to address it, and we need to take it seriously,” Beauregard said during his announcement.
While no new criminal charges have yet been filed in connection with the three most recent closures, officials said police investigations remain ongoing.
Initial Complaints Sparked Investigation
The crackdown began after complaints from a Methuen resident led to an undercover investigation at Beauty Garden Spa on Wallace Street last week.
During the inspection, police said they discovered living quarters for two women in the basement of the building. The spa’s manager was later charged with:
- Prostitution
- Keeper of a house of ill fame
- Trafficking a person for sexual servitude
Just days later, authorities also shut down Eastern Bodywork Therapy on Hampshire Street for alleged human trafficking activities.
Mayor: Protecting the Community Comes First
Mayor Beauregard said the actions are part of a broader effort to keep Methuen residents safe and to ensure that women in the community feel protected.
“My job as the mayor of Methuen is to look out for my residents, to keep my city safe, and to ensure that the people of this community feel safe—that women feel protected,” he said.
The mayor vowed that the city will continue moving aggressively against businesses that enable or profit from human exploitation.
Focus on Landlords and Johns Next
City officials stressed that the fight does not end with closing spas. In a press release, Beauregard warned that landlords, traffickers, and “johns” (clients of sex trafficking operations) will also be targeted.
“The demand created by johns is what fuels this evil criminal industry, and as Police Chief Scott McNamara indicated previously, we are targeting you next with the full might of the law,” the mayor said.
He added that Methuen has “zero tolerance for human trafficking—period.”
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The rapid closures and aggressive stance by city leaders have drawn attention across Massachusetts. Local residents have expressed both relief that action is being taken and concern about the scale of the problem uncovered in just a matter of days.
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Human trafficking experts note that similar crackdowns in other U.S. cities have revealed broader networks involving landlords, business managers, and organized groups. Methuen officials said they will work with state and federal partners to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
What Happens Next?
For now, the three spas closed Tuesday will remain shuttered pending further investigation. Authorities have not released details on whether additional charges are forthcoming, but Mayor Beauregard has promised that enforcement efforts will not slow down.
Methuen police continue to encourage anyone with information about suspected human trafficking operations to come forward. Residents can submit tips directly to the Methuen Police Department or through anonymous hotlines that specialize in trafficking cases.
Do you think Methuen’s aggressive crackdown is the right way to fight human trafficking, or should the focus shift to prevention and support for victims? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com
