There are more than 150,000 massage businesses in the United States, including storefronts and independent contractors, according to the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, an industry group. ADADThough many sex workers opt in by choice, experts say a portion of massage businesses force women to work under the threat of violence, deportation or financial ruin. Sex trafficking is a common target for politicians who want to appear tough on crime and show compassion for victims. That ambiguity has allowed some law enforcement agents to engage in conduct that civil rights advocates view as abuse of power. Investigators say some illicit massage businesses are part of sprawling criminal enterprises that can span dozens of establishments and several states.

Source: Washington Post April 03, 2021 12:02 UTC