Three arrested on prostitution charges after raid of Shelby County massage businesses - WBMA

[ABC 33/40]

SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. — On May 14, 2025, the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force, in collaboration with local agencies, executed six search warrants at businesses and residences in Shelby and Jefferson Counties. The operation targeted illicit massage businesses following a lengthy investigation prompted by citizen complaints.

Authorities determined that these businesses were being used for illegal prostitution. During the raids, investigators discovered that some women working at these establishments were in the country illegally and possibly employed solely for performing illegal sex acts.

The task force arrested Zhen Liang Ou, Aiqin Zheng, and Ting Ting Chen on charges of Felony Promoting Prostitution 2nd Degree. The individuals were found to be supervising, transporting, or profiting from acts of prostitution.

Search warrants were executed at Grace Spa and TRU Acupressure in Alabaster, Lily Massage in Chelsea, a residence in north Shelby County, TRU Acupressure in Birmingham, and a residence in Birmingham.

All other women encountered during the operation were given the opportunity to speak with victim advocates to determine if they were potential victims of human trafficking.

The Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force expressed gratitude to the concerned citizens and partnering agencies involved in the case. Investigations are ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.