Methuen forms task force after several spas shut down for human trafficking, code violations
By Emily Maher
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METHUEN, Mass. (WCVB) — The mayor of Methuen introduced Thursday a new task force designed to hold spas accused of human trafficking accountable, after several businesses were shut down by city inspectors.
Earlier this week, two spas were shuttered, with employees now facing charges and accused of trafficking women for sex.
A warrant is out for the arrest of another employee.
Police said they found living quarters for two women in the basement of one of the spas, Beauty Garden Spa on Wallace Street, after a lengthy investigation.
Methuen Mayor D.J. Beauregard said five spas were shut down and four others closed on their own accord.
“When inspectors arrived at those four locations, they were ghost towns,” Beauregard said.
In a press conference on Thursday, Beauregard said that the newly-formed task force would also hold accountable the people frequenting the spas.
“To the so-called Johns who fuel these crimes: you are not invisible. The city of Methuen is continuing to invest in enhanced law enforcement technology, including new license plate readers and an expanded public camera network,” Beauregard said. “If you engage in this vile activity, we will know who you are, and we will hold you up to public shame.”
Methuen Police Chief Scott McNamara said it is possible that letters could be sent to vehicle registration addresses of those who visited the spas.
“We’re currently exploring sending written notifications to the homes of registered owners of vehicles repeatedly observed at locations known or expected to be involved in human trafficking,” McNamara said.
He also said that some of the women forced to work at the spas have been taken to New York.
A website has been launched to provide support and resources to these victims.
The task force came as positive news to Methuen residents like Beth Foote, who saw suspicious activity at the spa in her neighborhood and called the police.
“I am thrilled that this is happening,” Foote said. “We have serious people doing serious things about serious problems.”
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