North Ogden, UT — A recent arrest at a local massage parlor is drawing attention to an ongoing issue in Utah regarding illicit activities masquerading as legitimate businesses. Last Friday, North Ogden police officers executed a search warrant at Clover Massage, a massage establishment that had been under investigation for several months. The warrant led to the arrest of one adult woman, though her name and the specific charges remain undisclosed at this time.
Detective Dezmond Perkins of the North Ogden Police Department confirmed that the investigation into Clover Massage began after receiving multiple tips from customers who reported suspicious activities during their visits to the parlor. Over the past few months, these reports prompted police to conduct surveillance at the business in an effort to gather more evidence.
“We’ve been receiving tips from customers for the past several months,” Perkins explained. “Over the past couple of months, we’ve been building our case and conducting surveillance at Clover Massage. Customers have come forward to report what occurred during their visits.”
Despite the arrest, Perkins did not elaborate on the specifics of the illegal activity or the number of charges the woman is facing. However, he did indicate that the case is still ongoing and further information is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
At this time, it appears Clover Massage has ceased operations. A sign posted on the front door of the establishment reads, “We are closed for maintenance. Sorry for the inconvenience.” This closure follows the police action and is likely a result of the ongoing investigation.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns in Utah about a rising number of massage parlors being used as fronts for illegal activities such as prostitution, human trafficking, and money laundering. In November, Utah News Dispatch reported that officials believe there are over 100 illicit massage businesses currently operating across the state. These businesses often pose as legitimate massage therapy establishments but are involved in a variety of criminal activities, which has prompted law enforcement and lawmakers to take action.
Local authorities have ramped up their efforts to address the issue, with state legislators contemplating tighter regulations for massage businesses. Discussions are underway about strengthening laws surrounding the massage industry and potentially increasing penalties for individuals, or “Johns,” who use these illicit services.
The North Ogden Police Department has not disclosed the full scope of the investigation, but Detective Perkins assured the public that more details would be made available soon. As the case progresses, local law enforcement agencies are expected to continue addressing the broader issue of illicit activities disguised as legitimate massage businesses across the state.