ALBANY, NEW YORK – Qingqin Xie, a 39-year-old Chinese national, faces serious charges after being arrested for operating a prostitution business out of various spas in the Capital Region. According to federal prosecutors, Xie utilized interstate facilities to manage her enterprise, which offered seemingly legitimate massage services but covertly engaged in commercial sex acts.
The investigation unraveled when law enforcement discovered evidence of sexual exploitation at Xie’s Moon Spa in East Greenbush, NY, last October. Despite the search and seizure, Xie allegedly continued to operate similar establishments, employing women to cater to customers’ desires for paid sex. The defendant has been charged with using interstate facilities of commerce to manage a business enterprise engaged in prostitution.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III emphasized that Xie’s actions were not only illegal but also an exploitation of vulnerable individuals. ‘My Office will continue to work with our partners to ensure those who sexually exploit people for profit are held accountable,’ Sarcone said.
Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albany Field Office, echoed this sentiment, stating that the arrest serves as a reminder that such illicit businesses will be investigated and shut down by federal law enforcement agencies. ‘The FBI, together with our partners, will ensure those who operate these enterprises are brought to justice,’ Tremaroli said.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. ‘This case is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our law enforcement partners,’ James stated. ‘Intercepting illegal businesses like this will remain a top priority.’
Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Field Office, commended the partnership that led to Xie’s arrest. ‘The alleged crimes demonstrate a brazen disregard for U.S. law and the wellbeing of New York residents,’ Keegan said.
The charge against Qingqin Xie carries a maximum term of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita is prosecuting the case as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. For more information on OCDETF, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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