Massage Parlor Prostitution: Shangri-La Loses Business License

ST. CHARLES, IL — The Shangri-La Massage and Spa has lost its business license and must pay nearly $3,000 in court costs after an employee was cited for misdemeanor prostitution, according to a press release from the City of St. Charles.

Mayor Raymond Rogina, acting as liquor control commissioner, made the decision in enforcement of local massage ordinances, the press release said.

The massage parlor has been under scrutiny since Jan. 11, 2017, when police conducted a sting operation.

The undercover officer, with the Illinois State Police, testified that on Jan. 11, he went to Shangri-La and agreed with the masseuse on $45 for a 30-minute massage. During the massage, the woman had him turn over, exposing his genitals, he said, according to the Herald. Exposed genitals is a violation of city code.

She then massaged his hips while asking what other services he wanted. She agreed to have sex with him for $100 and touched his genitals while putting a condom on him, he testified.

He then told the masseuse he couldn't do it, noting he would feel guilty cheating on his wife. They agreed that the woman would perform a sex act on her own, the Herald reported.

Rogina had decided to revoke their license in February 2017, but Shangri-La appealed that decision, extending the process.

"This is a rogue employee who allegedly perpetrated an act of solicitation," Richard Miller, the attorney representing Shangri-La's owner, said. "My client didn't knowingly allow it. She didn't personally violate any ordinances."

Nov. 27, 2017, Rogina made the decision that there was solid evidence that Shangri-La had indeed committed seven ordinance violations. He gave the company, and its counsel, until Dec. 18, 2017 to "provide a written mitigation document or appear before the St. Charles Liquor Commission."

After finally determining that Shangri-La had violated the Massage Establishment Code, the press release said, its license is gone and the business will have to pay $2,990.20 in court costs.

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