Crime & Safety
Oakland County, MI: Mother, Son Face Human Trafficking Charges
Oakland County, MI – A mother and son are facing multiple felony charges Tuesday, November 10, following a major human trafficking investigation involving massage businesses in Novi and Commerce Towns
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-11-10T23:04:31.141Z
Oakland County, MI – A mother and son are facing multiple felony charges Tuesday, November 10, following a major human trafficking investigation involving massage businesses in Novi and Commerce Township, northwest of Detroit. Authorities say the investigation uncovered an alleged organized criminal enterprise involving prostitution, money laundering and women housed at residential properties.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff 's Office, Minjie Wu and her son, Ruize Wu, were arrested after investigators uncovered evidence of suspected commercial sexual activity and financial crimes connected to several properties.
The investigation began after suspicious activity at massage establishments was reported to authorities. The case was transferred to the sheriff's Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force in August 2026.
Undercover detectives conducted multiple operations at the businesses, where they allegedly were offered sexual services in exchange for money. During one operation, a detective reported unwanted sexual contact, resulting in an additional criminal sexual conduct charge.
On October 7, investigators executed search warrants at four locations, seizing more than $47,000 in cash, designer merchandise valued above $75,000, two vehicles and additional evidence.
Investigators also reported discovering residential properties allegedly used to house women from China. One basement contained multiple rooms that authorities believed were designed to accommodate additional workers.
Both defendants face felony charges including conducting a criminal enterprise, human trafficking enterprise, maintaining houses of ill fame, money laundering and tax fraud. Minjie Wu additionally faces a second degree criminal sexual conduct charge.
Both appeared in 52 1 District Court on Friday, November 6, where bond was set at $50,000 cash each.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard credited a tip from a concerned individual with helping launch the investigation.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about suspected human trafficking to contact the Oakland County Sheriff's Office Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force at 248 858 0411 .
All charges remain allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.