Several in custody as a result of massage business investigation in Louisville
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Several individuals are facing charges as the result of an investigation into an illicit massage business in Louisville, according to the Louisville Metro Government.
According to the Louisville Metro Government’s website, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg made the announcement Wednesday, stating the indictments resulted thanks to the efforts of Louisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control, along with numerous local, state and federal law enforcement partners.
Officials say the investigation involved a multi-state human trafficking enforcement operation called Operation Deliver Justice.
According to officials, the operation was conducted on Tuesday and involved several searches at a business located at 4162 Bardstown Road at 5131 Dixie Highway and 3331 Red Roof Inn Place.
Investigators allege the businesses were operating as fronts for commercial sexual exploitation, officials say.
“This successful operation is a direct result of our strengthened efforts to address fraudulent massage establishments, including the establishment of a new multi-agency task force and an ordinance that helps us distinguish legitimate businesses from fraudulent ones,” said Greenberg. “I’m grateful for the hard work Director Silveria, his team, and the many other law enforcement partners who helped complete this operation and keep our community safe.”
The investigation was conducted as part of the ongoing work of the task force established by Greenberg to enhance collaboration between law enforcement, Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness and other partners to address suspected human trafficking and unlawful activity connected to illicit massage businesses operating within Louisville Metro.
According to Louisville Metro Government, the operation follows the implementation of a Louisville Metro ordinance, sponsored by District 23 Councilman Jeff Hudson, requiring massage businesses to obtain licensure through Louisville Metro ABC beginning March 31, 2026, strengthening oversight and accountability for massage establishments operating within Jefferson County.
Individuals taken into custody as a result of the investigation include Yejin Jeong, Jeonghwa Kim, James Kyu Yoo, Stephen R. Stout and Hyang Sun Brown.
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Additional charges may be forthcoming as investigators continue reviewing evidence collected during today’s operation.
Louisville Metro ABC encourages anyone with information regarding suspected human trafficking or exploitation to contact local law enforcement or submit anonymous tips by phone at 502-574-LMPD.
