West Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force Executes Search Warrants At Massage Parlors

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The West Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force executed search warrants at three massage parlors and a private residence Thursday morning as part of an 18-month investigation into suspected human trafficking and prostitution.

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The task force says the operation follows complaints from citizens and nearby business owners that launched the investigation nearly a year and a half ago.

Agents searched businesses on Skyland Boulevard, Hargrove Road East and McFarland Boulevard in Northport, along with a residence in Tuscaloosa.

Captain Phil Simpson, commander of the task force, said specific addresses will be released when the investigation concludes.

Multiple agencies assisted with the coordinated effort, including the revenue, code enforcement and building inspection departments in Tuscaloosa and Northport, both city fire marshals, the Tuscaloosa County Health Department, Hoover police and the University of Alabama’s Institute of Data and Analytics.

Counselors with Trafficking Hope — a nonprofit that partners with law enforcement to provide support for human trafficking survivors — accompanied officers at each location.

No arrests or additional details had been released as of Thursday morning.

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