Elkton Road Massage Business Closed Following Two Month Investigation

In March, 2023, Newark Police received an anonymous tip that the Nice Beauty Spa, located at 1164 Elkton Road in Newark, was operating a massage business and offering sex acts in exchange for money.

Officers from the Newark Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit opened an investigation and determined that the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation previously denied a permit for the business to operate a licensed massage establishment.  Officers conducted an undercover operation at the business and determined that prostitution was occurring and the business was continuing to operate without the proper state license.

On May 10, 2023, Newark police officers, assisted by the Delaware Department of Justice, FBI Human Trafficking Task Force and the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation, executed a search warrant at the Nice Beauty Spa and the business was closed by the Division of Professional Regulation due to numerous observed violations.  Three victims, who are believed to be victims of human trafficking, were contacted and connected with available services by Newark Police Victim Services and FBI Victim Services.

One male was arrested for patronizing a prostitute and released on a criminal summons.

Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact M/Cpl. J. Kendrick at (302) 366-7100 x. 3402 or jkendrick@newark.de.us.  Additional methods for providing information to Newark Police can be found on our tips page.

Victims of crime in Newark may contact our Victim Services Coordinator, Ms. Melissa Pennachi, at (302) 366-7100 x. 3137 or mpennachi@newark.de.us.  Our Victim Services Coordinator is available to provide resources to victims of crime and assist them through the investigation and prosecution process.