Two Charged with Prostitution For Alleged Sex Acts at Aroma Spa

Photo: This image was used in various Web ads for Aroma Spa in Cranston. (Photo via Backpage.com)

Two women — one from New York, the other from Cranston — are facing charges and police say they were illegally practicing massage without a license and offering customers a “happy ending” out of Aroma Spa at 465 Reservoir Ave.

Ok Kim, 62, of 465 Reservoir Ave.; and Chom Sun, 52, of Bayside, N.Y., were arrested on Thursday after an investigation that included an undercover officer who was offered a sexual act after getting a massage.

Police said the investigation began after a neighbor living in the area called police to report suspicious activity. Men were showing up throughout the day and night and the activity seemed odd for the neighborhood.

Police also received other reports that prostitution was occurring within Aroma Spa.

Police discovered that the business was advertising on various Web sites, including Backpage.com. In the ads, customers are offered a peaceful and comfortable environment with “our professional and experienced pretty Asian therapists.”

“You will come out totally refreshed!” the ads stated.

After the undercover officer was offered a sexual act, police soon had Kim and Meinke in custody. Kim is being charged with prostitution and practicing massage therapy without a license. Meinke is being charged with practicing massage therapy without a license.

Cranston Police Chief Col. Michael J. Winquist said the business was shut down as a result of the enforcement action and commended the neighbors for reporting the suspicious activity as well as the hard work of the detectives who worked the case.

“Cooperation from the community is paramount for the Police Department to effectively detect and dismantle organizations who commit illegal acts,” Winquist said.

He urged others to call police at 401-942-2211 or make an anonymous tip at www.cranstonpolice.com to report illegal or suspicious activity.

Both subjects were special arraigned at Cranston Police Headquarters and released from custody. A person found guilty of prostitution could face six months in jail or a fine of up to $1,000, or both. A person found guilty of practicing massage therapy can be fined up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.