Two Wanted in Ohio Brothel Network Probe

Two Wanted in Ohio Brothel Network Probe

by

Two suspects are on the run from Ohio authorities after a sweeping human trafficking investigation uncovered what officials describe as a network of brothels operating under the guise of massage parlors across four counties. According to Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County, Jianling Li and Mengchao Chen are wanted on multiple charges including promoting prostitution and conspiracy.

Multi-County Investigation

The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department-led investigation into the alleged sex for hire operations spanned Cuyahoga, Summit, Lorain, and Franklin counties. It’s alleged that since 2022 the group were running sex for hire operations at several locations. The case was investigated by human trafficking task forces, the Secret Service Money Laundering Task Force, and the US Border Patrol as part of a large-scale operation.

Suspects at Large

Li and Chen are both considered fugitives. Their last known address is out of Chicago, but investigators believe they could be in Ohio. If a person is traded, or moved around against their will it’s human trafficking. If someone is being forced into prostitution or sex work, that is also human trafficking, the source article notes, providing clarification on the definition of human trafficking in Ohio.

WANTED: Accused of operating brothels in Northeast Ohio, suspects on the run

Seeking Public Help

The public is being asked to assist in locating the suspects. If you know where either Jianling Li or Mengchao Chen are, you are urged to call Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County at 216-252-7463. Callers can remain completely anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.

WANTED: Accused of operating brothels in Northeast Ohio, suspects on the run

Worth a look

Read next