Why police in this small NC town allege potential human trafficking at local spa
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Pittsboro police executed a search warrant at Blue Jade Spa after trafficking allegations.
- Police alleged human trafficking and illegal sexual activity.
- State records showed no massage license for Blue Jade Spa as of Friday evening.
Pittsboro police executed a search warrant at a local spa Friday after allegations of human trafficking and illegal sexual activity.
Investigators received a complaint from a community member in October about Blue Jade Spa on West Street, according to a news release. The tipster alleged the salon was unlicensed and operating illegally.
“Additional concerns were raised about individuals reportedly residing at the business and rarely leaving the premises,” the release said. “Over the course of a five-month investigation, investigators developed probable cause indicating illegal sexual activity and potential human trafficking occurring at the business.”
No arrests had been made in the investigation, which remained underway, as of Friday evening.
A search of state records by The News & Observer on Friday evening found no record of a massage license for Blue Jade Spa.
According to Hope for Justice, an international nonprofit combatting sex trafficking that has worked with the Pittsboro Police Department on the investigation, potential signs of human trafficking include:
- Houses or apartments with “too many people” who are all picked up or dropped off at the same time
- People “who seem scared, confused or have untreated injuries”
- One person speaking on behalf of many; the other people involved may avoid eye contact
- Little to no pay
- Lights on at a workplace at strange times
- Fear of police or any authority
This story was originally published April 10, 2026 at 6:17 PM.
