Illegal massage parlors in Dover, Somersworth among 'spas' shut down by DOJ

The closures occurred in Derry, Londonderry, Hudson, Merrimack, Manchester, Dover, Salem, and Somersworth (Courtesy image)

CONCORD - More than a dozen former illicit spas that featured "massage services" including two in Dover and Somersworth have been shut down by the New Hampshire Department of Justice and other law enforcement partners.
The Attorney Generals Office reported on Wednesday that 40 percent of such facilities have been shuttered since an enforcement campaign began in November.
The initiative is part of the state Department Department of Justice's broader effort to disrupt human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation in New Hampshire communities.
"These businesses--posing as legitimate massage parlors--are often fronts for organized trafficking operations," the AG's statement explained. "They are typically located near schools, daycares, restaurants, and residential areas, exploiting women who are trafficked into the country, lured by false promises, isolated, and controlled through coercion and debt."
"These are not real spas--they are hubs of organized trafficking hiding in plain sight," said Formella. "They profit from the abuse of vulnerable women and have no place in our state."
The DOJ's multifaceted response includes the Landlord Engagement Program, a proactive effort to work with property owners to identify and shut down such businesses by terminating their leases. In collaboration with local law enforcement and national anti-trafficking nonprofit The Network, the DOJ has confirmed the closure of at least 15 IMBs located across Derry, Londonderry, Hudson, Merrimack, Manchester, Dover, Salem, and Somersworth.
"In Derry, we're taking decisive action to eliminate illicit massage businesses disguised as legitimate operations. Through coordinated efforts with law enforcement, code enforcement, our health officer, and the support of the Town Council, we've shut down six operations exploiting vulnerable women," said Derry Chief of Police George R. Feole. "This is organized trafficking, not legitimate business--and we're committed to identifying it, shutting it down, and protecting our community. We deeply appreciate the support of Attorney General Formella and his team as we work to eliminate these illegal operations."
The statement from the Attorney Generals Office did not reveal the names of the Dover or Somersworth businesses or any of the other "spas" shut down statewide.
The Attorney General's Office urges landlords and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious businesses. Landlords who believe any such activities may be operating on their property are encouraged to contact NH DOJ Anti-Trafficking Hotline at 603-271-9703.
"If you are buying sex at these businesses, you are funding human trafficking. You are part of the problem--and we will hold you accountable," said Formella. "If you are running one of these operations, know that our efforts will continue until every one of these businesses is shut down."
The recent passage of HB 405 makes it a class B felony for any person or business to knowingly permit a place under control to be used for prostitution. Class B felonies are punishable by up to 3.5 to 7 years in the State Prison and a $4,000 fine for an individual or a $100,000 fine for a business. If the offense involves a person under the age of 18 or involves the compulsion of another by force or intimidation, HB 405 increases the offense to a class A felony, which is punishable by up to 7.5 to 15 years in the State Prison and a $4,000 fine for an individual or a $100,000 fine for a business.
To report suspicious activity or request support, please contact the NH DOJ Anti-Trafficking Hotline: 603-271-9703.