Springfield residents demand action on massage parlor closures - newschannel20.com

[mnews]

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Springfield residents are asking why some massage parlors aren't being shut down despite their concerns.

A sign recently appeared on the doors of 88 Relaxing Massage, a frequent subject of public scrutiny, leading some to hope for more closures.

Ken Pacha, a public speaker, expressed frustration over the lack of transparency in the process.

"Numerous locations failed their licensing. They did not pass their inspection and there's not been follow up on that," Pacha said. "So I'm just curious where the process is with this because if we're talking about the process and we don't want to be skipping process and we got to remind everybody due process exists. I wonder where the process is because you guys aren't transparent about it."

Greg Moredock, the corporation counsel, emphasized the importance of due process, which can slow down the closure process.

"We would try to revoke. They would be able to present defenses to that," Moredock said. "They do have an opportunity to be heard, but that would be a violation of our ordinance and something we could cite them for."

During a public comment session, citizens voiced concerns about alleged human trafficking and prostitution at these establishments.

Aldermen discussed the issue extensively, with corporation counsel clarifying that their office, not the Springfield police, is responsible for revoking licenses.