The Delaware Department of Justice's Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) has announced the closure of its 25th illicit massage establishment (IME) since its inception in 2022. This announcement coincides with the conclusion of Human Trafficking Awareness Month and follows a campaign targeting prostitution and patronization issues across the state. The HTU emphasizes collaboration with public and nonprofit partners, raising awareness, supporting survivors, engaging in community outreach, and eradicating trafficking through prevention and prosecution.
Attorney General Kathy Jennings stated, "Patronizing a prostitute or an illicit massage establishment is not a victimless crime. Most, if not all of these workers are being trafficked and are subject to horrific treatment, and those who would solicit them are without question part of that abuse." She praised the efforts of the HTU along with law enforcement partners like Rep. Kim Williams and Sen. Nicole Poore for their work on this issue.
The Dover Police Department has expressed commitment to community safety in collaboration with the HTU. They see the shutdowns as significant steps toward eradicating human trafficking crimes and protecting vulnerable individuals.
Over three years, the HTU has focused on addressing IMEs which often disguise themselves as legitimate businesses but operate without proper licenses to facilitate commercial sex services. The unit collaborates with local police agencies such as Delaware State Police, municipal departments like Dover Police Department, state agencies including the Division of Professional Regulation, State Fire Marshal’s Office, landlords, and other partners to conduct investigations statewide.
Closed establishments include Serenity Bodyworks in Milford; Half Day Spa in Newark; Aroma Massage in Lewes; Asian Body Works Red Sun in Wilmington; Best Asian Bodywork in Wilmington; Dover Body & Soul in Dover; among others from previous years.
In addition to closing these establishments, a total of 35 individuals have been charged for patronizing prostitutes during operations conducted by the HTU alongside Delaware State Police, FBI agents from municipal police agencies including Dover Police Department and Georgetown Police Department. These efforts were carried out across Rehoboth Beach area cities like Wilmington Newark Dover Georgetown etc., providing resources victim advocates non-profit organizations multiple sex workers victims services needed assistance improving lives making state safer place everyone
For those affected by human trafficking assistance available through local law enforcement contact necessary reach out receive help