Pittsboro spa owner arrested after investigation into illegal activity
PITTSBORO, N.C. (WTVD) -- An arrest was made Friday in a Pittsboro spa investigation.
In October, the Pittsboro Police Department's Investigations Unit received a community complaint involving Blue Jade Spa, at 579 West St. The complaint alleged the business was operating as an unlicensed massage establishment.
Police said additional concerns were raised about people reportedly living at the business and rarely leaving the property.
During a five-month investigation, officers developed probable cause indicating illegal sexual activity and potential human trafficking connected to the business, according to the department. Investigators executed a search warrant at the location.
One of the spa owners -- Chao Li, 37, of Garner -- was arrested and charged with promoting prostitution, aid and abet prostitution, unlicensed practice of massage/body work, and advertising without a license.
Li posted a $3,000 bond on the misdemeanor charges. He is being held on the felony charge and is scheduled to appear in Chatham County Court on April 22.
This case remains under active investigation by the police department. No additional information was released.
