Sandy Springs Police Department detectives are searching for Christina Chi Ling Han, known as “Sandy,” in connection with an ongoing investigation involving allegations of human trafficking and illicit sexual activity at massage parlors around the city.
In late January, the SSPD conducted “Operation Sandy Springs Guardian,” arresting eight men for soliciting an illicit sexual act at a hotel off Powers Ferry Road.
The SSPD’s statement says the massage parlor investigation, coined “Operation No Safe Haven,” remains active and ongoing, with three women arrested and charged on Feb. 19 with solicitation for a sexual act.
After the arrests, detectives said they located and questioned a person of interest, known as “AtlantaFunGuy,” along with federal agents. Public Information Officer Sgt. Giovanni Gomez told Rough Draft Atlanta that the SSPD does not anticipate charging the man unless new information comes to light.
Gomez also said both operations proactively counter human trafficking and illicit sexual activity inside Sandy Springs.
Ongoing crackdown on trafficking
Detectives say they are continuing to identify and investigate individuals connected to the following shuttered locations: Pileo Therapy at 195 Cliftwood Drive; Pearl Massage at 8610 Roswell Road; Jade Spa at 8599 Roswell Road; Massage Springs at 6309 Roswell Road.
The SSPD included a warning in its Facebook posts about the ongoing investigation.
“The Sandy Springs Police Department will enforce the law,” the post said. “We will not tolerate illicit sexual activity, prostitution, or human trafficking in our community. Those who choose to participate in or support this activity should expect to be identified and held accountable.”
Officers said individuals who visited any of these establishments can expect to receive a letter from the Sandy Springs Police Department. If a patron would like to speak with a detective before officers make contact, can call (770) 551-6900.
Anyone with information about Christina Chi Ling Han’s whereabouts is also encouraged to contact the Sandy Springs Police Department.
Licensed spa owner comments on raid
During the March 3 Sandy Springs City Council meeting, the owner of Head 2 Toe Spa in the Hammond Exchange shopping center said her licensed massage business and a few others around the city want to be a part of the solution.
“We strongly oppose illegal massage businesses,” Ying Pan said. “As licensed business owners, we are committed to operating legally and working closely with the city. At this time, we would like to share our concerns due to the recent change to the permit system. Some massage therapists who have worked legally for many years are no longer able to work.”
She said her group of law-abiding spa and parlor owners wants Sandy Springs staff to allow them to renew their expired permits or provide a way for therapists to continue supporting their families.
“We want to be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem,” Pan said.
Council Member Melody Kelley, at the meeting, thanked the SSPD for Operation No Safe Haven and for shutting down two illicit businesses in the city’s North End.
On Facebook, community reactions to the ongoing investigation of illegal massage businesses were supportive, with some residents expressing concerns about businesses in neighboring areas.
The public can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text “BEFREE” 233733 for confidential assistance.
