After a yearlong investigation by the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, three women are facing multiple indictments for allegedly operating illicit massage parlors.

The indictment was filed Thursday by a Mahoning County grand jury against: 

  • Aixin Cheng of Virginia
  • Jinzhi Gong of Illinois
  • Man Ryung Yeo of Flushing, New York

The three are charged with multiple felonies, including:

  • Engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity (F1)
  • Conspiracy (F2)
  • Money laundering (F3)
  • Promoting prostitution (F4)
  • Possession of criminal tools (F5)
  • The women also are charged with solicitation, a third-degree misdemeanor.

The investigation looked into three massage parlors in two townships – Beaver and Springfield – where sexual services were allegedly offered in exchange for money.

According to the media release, detectives executed seven search warrants at the massage parlors and at hotel rooms rented by the women. The release also states that the investigation found the suspects were funneling large amounts of cash through several bank accounts.

The Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force is led by the Mahoning County Sheriff's Office and includes officers from the Austintown Police Department, Youngstown Police Department, Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Ohio Investigative Unit, East Palestine Police Department, Adult Parole Authority, Salem Police Department and Columbiana County Sheriff's Office.

Other officers assisting with the investigation include the Beaver Township Police Department, Springfield Township Police Department, Poland Village Police Department, Mahoning County Prosecutor's Office, and the Ohio Department of Public Safety.