City Permanently Closes Suspected Brothel After Being Trapped Inside

The city has officially decided to shut down a massage parlor in the Tenderloin district, known as Empire Spa. This decision comes in the wake of a lawsuit that accused the establishment of operating as a brothel. The closure is part of a settlement reached between City Attorney David Chiu and the spa’s owner, Ricky Lee.

Details of the Closure

On July 25, the Empire Spa was closed, and a settlement has now been finalized. Ricky Lee is required to pay the city $200,000 and is prohibited from owning or managing any massage or personal services business in California for the next ten years. Additionally, the property owners, Richard and Deborah Bocci, will face a $75,000 fine, and the property cannot be used for massage services for a decade.

Background Information

This investigation began after the city labeled Empire Spa as a public nuisance. Reports from undercover inspections revealed concerning activities inside the spa. Workers were allegedly observed wearing revealing clothing, and during an inspection, several women reportedly offered sexual services in exchange for money.

Inside Empire Spa

A reporter’s visit to Empire Spa on July 16 included interaction with the staff and a tour of the premises. During the visit, the reporter encountered a worker who denied knowledge of the lawsuit. The ten massage rooms across two floors were furnished minimally with typical decor. Notably, the inspector’s previous findings of used condoms were absent during the reporter’s observation.

Unusual Encounter

As the reporter left, an unexpected confrontation took place. A woman in a tight red dress demanded that photographs be deleted, asserting a fear that the reporter was a city inspector. Despite clearly identifying himself as a journalist, the situation escalated, making the reporter feel threatened. After complying with the demands to delete the photos, a man, claiming to be a police officer, later called to inquire about the incident.

Final Verdict

With the settlement in place, Empire Spa’s operations will cease permanently. The city’s action underscores a commitment to tackling illicit activities in local establishments. For both residents and visitors, the closure signifies a renewed effort to ensure public safety and uphold the law in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district.