Pawtucket cracks down on “body spas”

By Ana Bottary

abottary@abc6.com

@anabottary

Sixteen body works spa’s in Pawtucket will soon be getting an application from the city asking them to show proof of licensing or they’ll be shut down . It’s all part of a new ordinance the city hopes will eliminate sex trafficking and brothels hiding behind the title of "body works" spas. It’s something long-time Pawtucket resident, Patricia St. Germain, is happy to see.
 
"It’s a wonderful thing that this got passed. It’s not generating the type of business we want to see in our community," says St. Germain. 

The city knows of at least three spas that are operating illegally, advertising their services online.
 
"Our intent was to really target the ones that we know are no good and not welcome to our community, that are targeting women to do sexual favors," says Pawtucket City Councilor, Sandra Cano.
 
Previously, they skirted around the law by offering "body works" services, rather than massages. This new law eliminates that.

"They need to have professional workers in their places," says Cano.

"I think it’s a positive change, and I think it’s the right time for it," adds St. Germain.

The city has sent the applications to the businesses, which have three weeks to send them back before police take action.

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