Wilmington spa operator arrested, owner sought in human trafficking investigation

Wilmington spa operator arrested, owner sought in human trafficking investigation The operator of a Wilmington spa was arrested and the owner remains at large in connection with a human trafficking investigation, police said. Detectives said they identified three human trafficking victims who they believe were forced to work 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, without proper compensation. The operator of a Wilmington spa was arrested, while the owner remains at large in connection with a human trafficking and illicit activity investigation, according to the New Castle County Police Department. On Friday, police announced charges against 71-year-old Nan Son Yim, the operator of Crystal Spa on the 1700 block of Foulk Road. According to officials, Yim is accused of forcing three women, identified as victims of human trafficking, to work 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, without proper compensation. Police said the three human trafficking victims, ages 47, 54 and 56, were at the spa when detectives executed a search warrant on July 15.“I want to give my thanks to the New Castle County Police Department for their professional and thorough work on this case. The crimes committed by these illicit massage establishments are not victimless: they depend on exploiting a steady stream of trafficked individuals to keep their doors open, create a dangerous environment for all involved, and act as a nuisance to the surrounding community," Attorney General Kathy Jennings said in a statement.After the arrest, Yim was charged with three felony counts of human trafficking for forced labor, two felony counts of human trafficking for sexual servitude, one felony count of promoting prostitution and one felony count of conspiracy. Police later executed a search warrant at Quan's home on Mallard Circle in Claymont, which detectives said provided more evidence linking her to the operation of the spa.As of Friday morning, police were still trying to locate Quan, who is believed to have connections in Delaware and the Flushing, New York area. Officials said that, once located, Quan will also face three felony counts of human trafficking for forced labor, two felony counts of human trafficking for sexual servitude, one felony count of promoting prostitution and one felony count of conspiracy. During the July 15 search warrant, detectives also encountered two men inside Crystal Spa.Both were taken into custody and charged with one misdemeanor count of attempting to commit patronizing a prostitute. They were later released on their own recognizance, police said. Police said all victims identified during the investigation were referred to the New Castle County Division of Police Victim Services Unit for support, resources, and assistance.Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this investigation, the whereabouts of Meilan Quan, or any suspected human trafficking activity to contact Detective Townsend at 395-3609 or via email at. Tips may also be submitted through the New Castle County Division of Police 24/7 Human Trafficking Hotline at 395-2727.