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City, Police Working To Shut Down Illegal Brothels
by Marianne Martinez

Massage parlors being used as a front for houses of prostitution are being shut down all over Dallas – thanks to a concentrated effort between the city and police.

All over Dallas, it is becoming a common sight. So-called massage parlors shut down, doors locked.

“The goal is stop the prostitution activity that has plagued some neighborhoods in Dallas” says city attorney Tom Perkins.

It is a relief to people who have worked and lived near the parlors, like Mary Allred. “We don’t have the girls walking around anymore.”

She says business at her paint store has improved since a spa nearby, the Golden Flower, was shut down.

“We have more customers walking through than we used to. We’ve been busier.”

In the last six months, 15 such businesses have been closed, all due to a concentrated effort between city hall and Dallas police.

Once Dallas police undercover officers have evidence that prostitution is happening, they alert the city building officials.

City officials then look at the business’ certificate of occupancy, which is supposed to detail the type of business taking place.