August 6, 2025

Press Release: Neighborhood Voices + Reset180 Call for Urgent Action on Illicit Massage Businesses in Northern Virginia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Reston, VA – Citing growing neighborhood concern and recent criminal investigations, Reset180’s Executive Director, Esther Daniel, applauds both the community and local law enforcement for their commitment to protecting Northern Virginia from illicit massage businesses (IMBs), many of which serve as fronts for money laundering and human trafficking.

Recent Fairfax County police investigations have uncovered criminal activity at local spas, prompting charges and renewed scrutiny by authorities. The persistence and professionalism of law enforcement officials have been critical in bringing these operations to light. Equally important, residents have voiced alarm over suspicious activity near IMBs in their neighborhoods, ultimately contributing to these official inquiries and helping drive action.

Esther Daniel, Executive Director of Reset180, states:

“We deeply applaud the courage and initiative of local residents who have shared their concerns with county officials, as well as the excellent work of our law enforcement partners in investigating and pursuing justice in these cases. This combination of grassroots engagement and strong enforcement is essential, not only in exposing wrongdoing, but in demanding real accountability.”

Daniel continues:

“Illicit massage businesses do far more than skirt regulations, they undermine public safety through money laundering, and, in too many cases, serve as direct pipelines for human trafficking. The presence of these establishments erodes trust and harms the broader community.”

Reset180 urges local and state agencies to take decisive, coordinated steps to identify and close down IMBs, enforce existing statutes, and protect vulnerable residents. The organization also supports Fairfax County’s efforts to reform its massage therapy regulations, the first such update in decades, to address lapses in oversight and enforcement.

Residents can take immediate action by signing Reset180’s petition to shut down illicit massage businesses in Northern Virginia. The petition can be accessed here.

About Reset180
Reset180 is a nonprofit organization focused on disrupting human trafficking in Northern Virginia. With community-based outreach, advocacy, and survivor support, Reset180 works to dismantle illicit operations and foster restoration.

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