Two people have been charged and additional charges may be forthcoming after a human trafficking investigation at a Sheffield Lake business.
According to a release from the Sheffield Lake Police Department, officers began investigating D Foot Spa, located at 4648 Lake Road, after receiving an anonymous tip in September about possible illicit activity. The tip prompted an undercover operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, Human Trafficking Task Force (HEAL), and Sheffield Lake Police coordinated efforts to establish probable cause for a search warrant. The operation also involved the State Medical Board, U.S. Border Patrol, the Governor’s Human Trafficking Task Force, Asian Services in Action (ASIA), and the Sheffield Lake Building Department.
Authorities executed the search warrant on October 22, finding three women inside along with evidence connected to the investigation. ASIA provided aid and assistance to the women, who were identified as potential victims.
The Sheffield Lake Building Department issued a notice of code violations for illegal re-occupancy, and a separate notice to vacate was posted by the property’s ownership group. The building has been ordered to remain vacant until the necessary occupancy certificates are reissued.
In a written statement, police said that two individuals have been charged and that the investigation remains active. Additional charges could be filed against others as evidence is reviewed.
Chief Andrew Kory noted in the release that the owner of the property cooperated with law enforcement and took steps to terminate the lease once notified of the activity.
“These types of illegal businesses are directly connected to human trafficking of females,” Kory stated. “This type of criminal activity is dangerous to the victims of human trafficking and the communities where these businesses are located. The owner of the property was made aware of this activity and quickly took steps to end the lease and close the business.”
The case remains under investigation by the Sheffield Lake Police Department and the Lorain County Human Trafficking Task Force