Two arrested, three charged in human trafficking and prostitution investigation

RICHMOND, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Two people remain behind bars tonight in Madison County, charged in what police are calling a human trafficking and prostitution investigation.

The investigation began two months ago, when Richmond Police received complaints and tips from Bluegrass Crime Stoppers regarding suspicious activities at Fuji Health Studio.

These calls suggesting there was possibly illegal sexual activity and human trafficking going on at the business.

“So after we got those calls, detectives and undercover officers collected over 250 hours of surveillance and other investigative means regarding Fuji Health Studio,” said Major Daniel Deaton, with the Richmond Police Department.

On Thursday, officers served a search warrant for the Fuji Health Studio on South Porter Drive in a building housing other businesses.

62-year-old Alicia Young and 54-year-old Shizhe Jin were arrested.

“Two individuals were arrested for promoting human trafficking, promoting prostitution, practicing massage therapy without a license and also operation of a sham or front company,” said Deaton.

45-year-old Dahe Jung, 52-year-old Eun Jung Kim and 44-year-old Seunghee Kim were also charged.

Deaton says those three “were charged with promoting prostitution and practicing without a massage therapy license.”

Kala Gibson owns a clothing boutique right next door and was shocked to hear about what happened.

“Never thought about human trafficking or anything like that. I feel awful for the girls you know,” said Gibson. “And you know, like I just don’t want anyone thinking that we condone that we didn’t hear anything. We don’t we didn’t know.”

Deaton says more charges could follow as the investigation continues.

He also wants to remind the public that if you see something, say something.