• Five individuals arrested following a Rhode Island State Police probe into alleged prostitution and money laundering at Smilers Day Spa.
• Four suspected victims of human trafficking recovered and connected with support services.
• Authorities seized $81,500 in cash during search warrants executed at the spa and other locations.
• Investigation launched after a confidential tip and included surveillance plus more than 50 financial search warrants.
• The massage parlor on North Main Street had been previously raided in 2019 for similar allegations.
Providence, R.I. — Five people have been arrested following a monthslong Rhode Island State Police investigation into alleged prostitution and money laundering at a massage parlor in Providence.
State police said its special victims unit launched the probe in October 2025 after receiving a confidential tip that commercial sexual activity was taking place at Smilers Day Spa on North Main Street.
During the investigation, four suspected victims of human trafficking were recovered and connected with housing, counseling and medical care services.
“These efforts reflect a continued commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors on their path to recovery,” state police said in the release.
Detectives conducted surveillance and served more than 50 search warrants involving financial institutions, cash applications and tax records. They reportedly observed between 25 and 40 men frequenting the spa on most days.
According to police, online reviews “made it clear” that sexual acts were being performed in exchange for money at the business. Evidence also showed the owners and operators conspired to run a commercial sex operation and launder the proceeds.
On Thursday, state police, along with the FBI and several law enforcement agencies, executed multiple search warrants at Smilers Day Spa and other locations, seizing $81,500 in cash.
As a result, the following individuals were arrested and each face felony charges:
• Larry Chow, 65, of Norwich, Connecticut
• Naja Ho, 70, of Lincoln
• Monica Chow, 33, of Lincoln
• Yong Kim, 67, of Flushing, New York
• Haiyue Cui, 30, of Lincoln
Police said the women suspected of engaging in sex work were living full-time at the spa.
Smilers Day Spa had previously been raided and shut down in 2019 for prostitution and suspected human trafficking.
The investigation highlights ongoing law enforcement focus on addressing human trafficking and related crimes at such establishments.
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