In 2018, the Upland Police Department received information that Paradise Spa, a massage parlor, was involved in prostitution activity.
After conducting a preliminary investigation, Upland Police Department Detectives set up an undercover operation. An undercover officer went into the location and confirmed that sexual acts were being performed for money. There was also evidence that some of the women were living at the location in subpar conditions and may have been sex trafficked.
The operation resulted in an arrest and the revocation of their business license. Victims services were also offered to the women.
The business owner appealed the revocation and the case went to court. Serviam by Wright LLP worked closely with the Upland Police Department preparing for the appeal hearing, which resulted in the hearing officer ruling in favor of the City.
Attorney Scott Kalter did an excellent job collaborating with the Upland Police Department to address the issue from both a criminal and administration perspective. This was just another example of his passion and expertise in handling these types of cases.
Serviam by Wright has been tremendous in their assisting us in the direction of how these cases are brought together, and how they’re prosecuted, so that way we can do the best we can with our investigative skills to bring these cases to light.
Detective Bryce Milakovich, Upland Police Department
