The defendant Xue Fang Lu (phonetic: Lu Xuefang. Left image), Gordon Dennis Shaw (Right image) | Bonneville County Jail
Idaho Prostitution Trafficking Case: 61-Year-Old Woman Convicted, Faces Up to 40 Years
Comprehensive compilation from AOL News and East Idaho News reports:
A recent ruling in a prostitution trafficking case in Idaho Falls, Idaho, found a 61-year-old woman guilty by a jury, involving serious felony charges of interstate prostitution trafficking and pimping.
Reports state that the defendant Xue Fang Lu (phonetic: Lu Xuefang) was convicted of two felonies: interstate prostitution trafficking and organizing prostitution activities after a five-day jury trial on March 6. The case is related to her operation of an illegal massage parlor in a local hotel.
The prosecution noted that the massage parlor operated from March to May 2024, disguised as a cover for prostitution activities. Investigations revealed that the defendant and others lured a woman from California to Idaho and forced her into commercial sex.
Police discovered that the establishment had been advertising in a sexual innuendo on social media to attract clients. An undercover officer posed as a customer, booked a service, and entered the hotel room, where law enforcement took action and arrested the defendant.
The court had previously dismissed a related human trafficking charge, but the other two felonies were established. According to the law, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of up to 40 years. Sentencing is scheduled for May this year.
Additionally, an 83-year-old accomplice, a former police officer, was also charged in the case, but his proceedings were delayed due to health reasons.