West Haven Woman Charged In Massage Spa Prostitution Investigation: North Branford Police

NORTH BRANFORD, CT —In February, the North Branford Police Department received multiple complaints from community members alleging prostitution-related activity and the offering of sexual services at a local massage parlor, according to Chief of Police James Lovelace.

Operating under the name Asian Massage Spa, it's registered with the state as Sun Flower Spa, records show. The business is located at 2341 Foxon Road.

Lovelace said that "recognizing the seriousness of these allegations," police began an investigation, and with Connecticut State Police as a partner, assigned the case to a North Branford Police Task Force Officer working in collaboration with the state police Organized Crime Unit, the chief said.

Between late February and March 25, investigators conducted an extensive inquiry utilizing search warrants, investigative analysis of online platforms commonly associated with such activity, and coordinated intelligence-sharing among law enforcement agencies, Lovelace said.

The investigation determined the allegations to be credible and substantiated, he noted.

Wednesday, investigators executed a search warrant authorized by the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office.

Arrested and charged are:

Shao Hai Hua, 42, of Flushing, NY, was charged with soliciting a sexual act, Li Liu, 52, of Rochester, NY, was charged with conspiracy to commit soliciting a sexual act, and Hui Chen, 53, of West Haven, was charged with conspiracy to commit soliciting a sexual act.

All three women posted bond, Lovelace said. They are due in New Haven Superior Court April 8.

"The conduct uncovered during this investigation is inconsistent with the values and expectations of the North Branford community," Lovelace said. "The North Branford Police Department remains committed to protecting the quality of life in our town and will continue to aggressively investigate criminal activity and hold offenders accountable under the law."

Lovelace also noted the "investigation highlights the critical importance of community partnership and interagency collaboration."

"The North Branford Police Department extends its appreciation to residents who came forward to report suspicious activity, as well as to the Connecticut State Police and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office for their continued cooperation and support," he said.

All arrests are subject to judicial review and determination in a court of law. The information presented is based on probable cause and does not constitute a conviction.