A high-end brothel network servicing “wealthy and well-connected clientele” in apartment complexes in Massachusetts and Virginia was uncovered by federal investigators, leading to the arrest of three men allegedly connected to the commercial sex ring.
“This commercial sex ring was built on secrecy and exclusivity, catering to wealthy and well-connected clientele,” acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua Levy said in a news conference in Boston.
Authorities said in a news release the commercial sex buyers included elected officials, high-tech and pharmaceutical executives, doctors, military officers, government contractors who possess security clearances, professors, attorneys, scientists, and accountants, among others.
“Pick a profession; they’re probably represented in this case,” Levy said.
Levy said the identities of the commercial sex buyers were not shared, but indicated that could change as the investigation is ongoing and far from over.
The three individuals charged with conspiracy to coerce and entice to travel to engage in illegal sex activity included James Lee, 68, of Torrance, California, Han Lee, 41, of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Junmyung Lee, 30, of Dedham, Massachusetts.
According to the court documents, the three men operated an interstate prostitution network in multiple brothels in Cambridge and Watertown, Massachusetts, as well as in Fairfax and Tysons, Virginia, from at least July 2020.
Authorities said the men allegedly enticed primarily Asian women to travel to Massachusetts and Virginia to engage in prostitution in rented high-end apartment complexes as brothel locations that were furnished and regularly maintained.
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The three men accused allegedly ran two websites that advertised nude Asian models for professional photography at upscale studios as a front for prostitution offered through appointments with women listed on their websites.
Levy said clients would first have to fill out a form with personal information, including their names, work information, email addresses, phone numbers, and a reference, before booking an appointment, costing up to $600 an hour.
The clients were then given a “menu” of options and paid the women in cash.
“Business is booming, until today,” Levy told reporters.
If convicted, the charged individuals face up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
“It’s through these investigative efforts that we shine a light on sexual trafficking as a global issue,” Cambridge Police Commissioner Christine Elow reportedly said at the news conference.