Town Looks to Strengthen Massage Regulations

Last week’s arrest of two massage parlor workers in Wakefield offering sex acts for a fee only highlights a continuing problem throughout the region, according to Wakefield Town Administrator Stephen Maio.

Following an undercover investigation last week, police arrested Nairu Zhang of Malden at the Apple Spa at 113 Water Street. Within the hour, police also arrested Fan Lu of Malden at Longer Living Bodyworks, also on Water Street.

Maio said the town has been looking at ways to address concerns at massage businesses.

“This is a concern of the town and we’re not alone,” said Maio. “Unfortunately, it is an issue all over.”

One of the issues is that the town’s no longer regulate licenses for massage businesses. Several years ago, Maio said the state effectively took over the licensing.

He said there are also some loopholes were certain kinds of massage businesses do not need to get a special license.

However, Maio said the town has been looking at ways it can better regulate these kinds of businesses.

“The Board of Health is promulgating some new regulations which they will bring forward at its September meeting,” Maio said.