Albuquerque police shut down two local massage parlors when it was discovered that the businesses were harboring prostitution operations that may also be involved in human trafficking.

On Monday afternoon, detectives shut down White Dragon massage parlor and the Healing Massage parlor on the suspicion that the employees were performing sex for money.

According to police, the Chinese women who were working there may have been brought in from China against their will and forced into prostitution. Agents from the FBI and Immigration and Customs Enforcement have also entered the investigation to determine whether the businesses were in fact part of a sex slave operation.

Two women have been arrested in connection with the case and have been charged with prostitution. Police anticipate more arrests as the investigation continues.

Prostitution is punishable as a misdemeanor offense in California. Under Penal Code Section 647(b), it is illegal to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money or other forms of compensation. It is also a crime under this statute to solicit or agree to sex with the intent to pay for the arousal or gratification.

If you are convicted of prostitution, the penalties include a jail sentence of up to six months in county jail as well as a maximum fine of up to $1,000.

If you are charged with prostitution as either the provider or solicitor of the sexual act, it is very important that you seek the legal expertise of a criminal defense attorney who can help you stave off the legal and personal consequences of a conviction. At Wallin & Klarich, our Orange County attorneys have over 30 years of practice experience in handling prostitution cases and will help you raise the necessary defenses. Call us today at 877-230-1528 or visit us online at www.wksexcrimes.com. We will be there for you when you call.