Iowa City, IA – Authorities in Johnson County announced Tuesday the arrest of three individuals following a human trafficking investigation tied to two Iowa City massage parlors.
According to the Johnson County Attorney’s Office, the investigation concluded on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, when Iowa City police arrested Zhenshi Liu, 60, and Junping Ren, 56, both of Iowa City, along with Yang Liu, 33, of Hoover, Alabama. The arrests were part of a multi-agency operation led by the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI), dubbed Operation Safe Passage.
Investigators allege Liu and Ren employed women who were forced to perform sex acts while working excessive hours inside two businesses: Paradise Spa on Broadway Street and Paradise Spa on First Avenue. During the operation, officials also reported a sexual assault incident involving one of the suspects.
In addition, prosecutors allege Liu and Ren laundered $2.6 million through real estate purchases. Yang Liu is accused of assisting in laundering $1.5 million.
Charges include ongoing criminal conduct, money laundering, pimping, pandering for prostitution, and prostitution. Liu also faces a third-degree sexual abuse charge. All three suspects remain in custody on $125,000 bonds.
The operation involved support from local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI, Iowa State Patrol, Cedar Rapids Police Department, and Wapello County Sheriff’s Office. Officials emphasized that victim services are being provided as the case continues.
A criminal charge is only an accusation, and all individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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