Charges in Lotus Massage incident now known

The charges in the Aug. 13 incident at Lotus Massage, where the special investigations unit of the Vestavia Hills Police Department executed a search warrant and made one arrest, are now known.

One person was arrested on suspicion of promoting prostitution and violating the state's code governing massage therapists. The name of the arrestee is not being released so as to not negatively impact an ongoing investigation.

The state's code regarding massage therapists states:

"No person may perform the duties of a massage therapist unless he or she possesses a current license issued pursuant to this chapter. A licensed massage therapist may not perform massage therapy, whether or not for compensation, for a sexually oriented business. A licensed massage therapist shall not advertise or offer to perform services outside the scope of his or her expertise, experience, and education for clients who are ill, or those with physical dysfunction(s), unless such services are performed in conjunction with a licensed physician, physical therapist, or chiropractor."

The latter charge, which led to the business voluntarily surrendering both its business license and massage license, was related to a violation of that code, though specifics are not known at this time.

On Aug. 13, the special investigations unit executed a warrant in the 4800 block of Cahaba River Road at the massage parlor, said Capt. Shane Ware with VHPD.

The business is now closed. The phone was disconnected when a Voice reporter attempted to call on Thursday, Aug. 13 for comment.

The incident follows the July 23 execution of a search warrant at JY Massage, located about a block from the former Pizitz Middle School and new freshman campus of Vestavia Hills City Schools. No arrests were made during that incident.

Ware said it is unknown at this time if more warrants will be served at other massage parlors.