Alleged Masseuse/Prostitutes Held on Bail

Two women police say were prostituting at massage parlors in North Andover were arraigned in Lawrence District Court Wednesday afternoon, each ordered held on $1,000 cash bail.

Jianfang Lui, of 4114 Main St., Flushing, N.Y., and Rongxiu Ye, of 142 Barclay Ave., Flushing, N.Y., were charged with providing sexual conduct for a fee and providing unlicensed massages.

The women -- Chinese natives but in the United States legally -- reportedly operated their massage business, Asian Body Works, at 451 Andover St. and 14 Main St. Prosecutors said that after numerous complaints, police launched an investigation with the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents. Police said certain advertisements and reviews of the business also prompted the investigation.

On Tuesday, two police officers went to the locations as part of a sting. According to police reports, an officer met with Ye and received a massage from her, disrobing but leaving his underwear on. At one point, the report says, Ye allegedly removed his underwear and offered to perform a sexual act. The officer then asked how much money that would cost, and she allegedly replied that it was $40. The officer then left and Ye was arrested.

At another location, an officer met with Liu in a similar scenario. At one point during the massage, Liu allegedly asked if he wanted her to perform a sexual act, and the officer asked how much, to which she replied that it was $40. At that point, the officer reportedly left and Liu was arrested.

According to reports, Liu told police that they were both sent from New York to open shops in this area.

The women apparently advertised their massage business on Backpage, a website notorious for sex services:

"Clean private rooms, surround with relaxing music, comfortable... Through the best Acupressure, Shiatus, Tuina and more... Our staffs' magic hands will relieve your stress, rejuvenate your body and soul..."

"Offering table shower, hot oil stone, and more...
Open 7 days a week., 9:00 am - 10:00 pm"

"Gorgeous, Sweet Asian Girl Massage"

As a condition of bail, both women are ordered not to work at any spa. Both women are due back in court on June 24 for a pre-trial hearing.