Massive NJ-NY Prostitution Ring Busted: 7 Charged in Multi-County “Massage Parlor” Takedown

The enterprise was a “sophisticated and lucrative” operation

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Fair Lawn, NJ — A sprawling criminal network that operated a string of illicit massage parlors across New Jersey and New York has been dismantled. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced today that seven individuals have been charged with first-degree racketeering and promoting prostitution following a sophisticated multi-agency investigation.

The takedown, led by the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), targeted brothels disguised as legitimate spas in towns ranging from Fair Lawn and Hillsborough to New Brunswick and Williamstown.

A Lucrative Network Built on Exploitation

According to court documents, the enterprise was a “sophisticated and lucrative” operation. Investigators seized over $150,000 in cash during raids on December 2, 2025, bringing the total estimated illicit proceeds—including bank deposits—to more than $500,000.

“Sophisticated criminal networks such as this one thrive on exploitation and manipulation,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Our investigators worked relentlessly to determine the sprawling extent of this operation and take it down, making our neighborhoods safer.”

The “Spas” Identified in the Sting:

The investigation revealed that the group operated several illicit storefronts under the guise of “Reiki” and “Holistic” therapy:

• Newfoundland, NJ: Yan’s Massage and Reiki

• Fair Lawn, NJ: JW Holistic Spa

• Hillsborough, NJ: Star Massage and Reiki

• New Brunswick, NJ: Sunny Spa

• Passaic, NJ: Kyoto 14

• Williamstown, NJ: Violet Spa

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The Key Players and Their Roles

The charges detail a highly organized hierarchy of “leaders,” “managers,” and “couriers.”

• The Leaders: Jessica Yan Xiong, Zongan Lin, and Zitian Zhang face the most severe charges, including First-Degree Racketeering and Money Laundering. They are accused of controlling the finances and moving women between locations to keep the brothels running.

• The Landlord: Ricardo Botti of Oak Ridge, NJ, is charged with racketeering. Authorities allege Botti assisted Xiong in keeping the Newfoundland location open even after business licenses were denied and the site was shut down for prior prostitution offenses.

• The Couriers: Thowleong Chew and Min Li are accused of serving as drivers, transporting women from New York to various spas across New Jersey.

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Digital Trails and Financial Analysis

The investigation relied heavily on a mix of boots-on-the-ground surveillance and digital forensics.

1. Online Reviews: Law enforcement noted that the spas were subject to online “hobbyist” reviews, which explicitly detailed sexual acts performed for money.

2. Cash Deposits: A financial analysis of bank accounts associated with Jessica Yan Xiong showed cash deposits exceeding $300,000 since October 2023, despite her having no visible legitimate employment.

3. Surveillance: Detectives witnessed a steady stream of male clientele frequenting the locations during hours of operation.

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Severe Penalties Looming

The defendants face significant prison time if convicted. First-degree racketeering alone carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and fines up to $500,000.

“Prostitution is not a victimless crime,” said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton. “The defendants in this case are charged with exploiting women for profit and putting them at risk.”

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Case Summary: The “Yan’s Massage” Takedown

Charge	Potential Sentence
1st Degree Racketeering	10–20 Years in Prison
1st Degree Money Laundering	10–20 Years in Prison
2nd Degree Leader of Organized Crime	5–10 Years in Prison
3rd Degree Promoting Prostitution	3–5 Years in Prison

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