The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has issued six-month emergency closure orders, effective March 19, 2025, for two massage establishments in Fort Worth and Garland suspected of operating as fronts for human trafficking.
Chiping Zhang, the owner/operator of both establishments, has been ordered to cease operations and is prohibited from operating any massage establishments at these locations for six months:
- SY Foot, 1456 Belt Line Road, Suite 117, Garland
- Tao Happy Feet, also known as Happy Feet Massage, 6227 Oakmont Blvd., Suite 6227, Fort Worth
TDLR inspectors and Garland Police Department officers found indicators of possible human trafficking during inspections of the Garland location, including individuals residing on the premises and prohibited items. Online investigations also revealed the location was advertising on illicit websites. The Garland Police Department had received multiple complaints concerning possible human trafficking at the location.
Similarly, an inspection of the Fort Worth location by a TDLR investigator revealed evidence of individuals living on the premises and prohibited items. Online investigations also showed advertisements on illicit websites.
These closures are in line with HB 3579, passed during the 88th Legislature Regular Session, which strengthens regulations against human trafficking in massage establishments.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring can contact the National Hotline for Human Trafficking at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). If the situation is an emergency or you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 and alert the authorities.
You can also file a complaint on a TDLR-regulated business that you suspect may be participating in human trafficking.
