News Summary
San Antonio’s TDLR has mandated a six-month emergency shutdown of Sweetness Spa due to serious allegations of human trafficking and illegal activities. The order follows evidence suggesting illicit sexual encounters and unlicensed employees within the spa. Investigations revealed alarming signs, including fleeing employees and questionable items on the premises. This enforcement action reflects Texas’s commitment to combat human trafficking effectively. Local authorities are urging community involvement in reporting suspected trafficking activities.
San Antonio Orders Six-Month Shutdown of Spa Over Human Trafficking Concerns
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has mandated a six-month emergency shutdown of Sweetness Spa, also known as QQ Spa or Wang’s Spa, effective April 22, 2025. This decision follows serious allegations of human trafficking and other illicit activities occurring within the establishment, located at 12255 West Avenue, Suites 104 and 105, on San Antonio’s North Side.
The closure was initiated after TDLR received a public complaint containing visual evidence of alleged sexual encounters at the spa. This material was reportedly sourced from an online chat group, raising alarm bells among authorities about the nature of the operations taking place inside. TDLR’s investigation revealed the presence of several unlicensed employees working at the spa, further contributing to the decision for the emergency shutdown.
During their investigation, TDLR personnel witnessed employees fleeing the premises, indicating potential knowledge of wrongdoing. Additionally, a male customer was found undressed inside the establishment. He quickly exited the location after getting dressed, raising further suspicions about the spa’s operations. TDLR noted the presence of numerous security cameras and items such as lingerie on the premises, suggesting possible human trafficking activities.
Enforcement Actions and Regulations
TDLR’s emergency closure order was directed to the owner, Guixan Han, alongside Golden Phoenix Holdings LLC. The order prohibits these entities from conducting any massage establishment business at the same address for the duration of the six-month shutdown. The TDLR’s actions are part of a broader effort to combat human trafficking, utilizing new emergency enforcement powers granted under House Bill 3579, which took effect on September 1, 2023. This legislation allows the department to carry out immediate shutdowns if there are indicators of trafficking, even in the absence of formal criminal charges.
Reporting Suspected Human Trafficking
In light of these recent events, individuals who suspect human trafficking activities are encouraged to report their findings to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). For emergencies or situations posing immediate danger, the public is advised to call 911 and notify the authorities.
Background on Human Trafficking Awareness
Human trafficking remains a pervasive issue across many regions, where individuals are exploited for labor or commercial sex against their will. The fight against this crime has gained momentum, with legislators and enforcement agencies implementing measures to respond rapidly to potential trafficking scenarios. The TDLR’s decision to close Sweetness Spa reflects a proactive approach to addressing and mitigating these alarming activities within the community.
As cities across the nation grapple with similar concerns, the awareness surrounding human trafficking continues to grow, underscoring the importance of vigilance and community reporting in combating this complex issue.
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Additional Resources
- News 4 San Antonio
- Wikipedia: Human Trafficking
- KSAT
- Google Search: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
- KENS 5
- Google Scholar: Human Trafficking Legislation
- FOX San Antonio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: House Bill 3579
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google News: Sweetness Spa Closure
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
