METHUEN, Mass. —

The mayor of Methuen introduced Thursday a new task force designed to hold spas accused of human trafficking accountable, after several businesses were shut down by city inspectors.

Earlier this week, two spas were shuttered, with employees now facing charges and accused of trafficking women for sex.

A warrant is out for the arrest of another employee.

Police said they found living quarters for two women in the basement of one of the spas, Beauty Garden Spa on Wallace Street, after a lengthy investigation.

Methuen Mayor D.J. Beauregard said five spas were shut down and four others closed on their own accord.

In a press conference on Thursday, Beauregard said that the newly-formed task force would also hold accountable the people frequenting the spas.

"To the so-call

See Full Page