Asheville, North Carolina, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Jianmei Gao, a 55-year-old spa owner, has been charged with aiding and abetting prostitution and bribery in Asheville. Investigations into her spas followed community complaints, revealing illicit activities and prompting further law enforcement actions. The Asheville Police Department continues to investigate, and additional charges are possible as evidence emerges.
Asheville Spa Owner Jianmei Gao Charged with Aiding Prostitution and Bribery After Investigation
Asheville, North Carolina – Jianmei Gao, a 55-year-old spa owner from Flushing, New York, has been charged with aiding and abetting prostitution and two counts of bribery following an investigation by the Asheville Police Department. The charges stem from multiple community complaints regarding suspected prostitution activities at her spas.
The investigation into Gao began after allegations surfaced about illicit activities within her businesses, prompting authorities to take action. Gao previously operated a massage parlor known as Hope Massage on Hendersonville Road, which was shut down in March 2025 after it was found to be operating without a license.
In July 2025, Gao made contact with an Asheville police detective, offering to provide assistance and insider information concerning the ongoing investigation into her operations. This interaction led to a significant development, as Gao allegedly began bribing the detective with thousands of dollars over the ensuing two months.
As part of the investigation, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Healing Massage, located on Tunnel Road, where Gao is currently the owner. During the search, investigators collected damning evidence, including electronic transactions, ledgers, electronic devices, and condoms that indicated potential involvement in prostitution-related activities.
The Asheville Police Department has indicated that the investigation remains active, and officials have stated that additional charges may be pursued as more evidence emerges. Citizens with information related to this case are urged to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110. Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously by texting TIP2APD to 847411.
Background Context
The investigation into Gao’s spas follows a pattern of community concerns about illegal activities within massage parlors in the Asheville area. In recent years, such establishments have faced increased scrutiny from law enforcement agencies, resulting in numerous closures and legal actions against owners. The issues raised by the community reflect broader statewide and national debates about human trafficking and the regulation of massage therapy businesses.
Gao’s prior establishment, Hope Massage, being shut down due to licensing irregularities, is part of a trend where illegitimate practices undermine the credibility of legitimate massage therapy practitioners. This ongoing case against Gao highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized prostitution and ensuring that service-oriented businesses comply with legal standards.
Conclusion
The legal proceedings against Jianmei Gao reflect serious allegations that could lead to significant repercussions. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the extent of the activities at her establishments and hold those involved accountable.
FAQ
What charges does Jianmei Gao face?
Gao is charged with aiding and abetting prostitution and two counts of bribery.
What prompted the investigation into Gao’s spas?
The investigation was prompted by multiple community complaints about suspected prostitution activities at her spas.
What was the outcome of the previous business operated by Gao?
Her previous establishment, Hope Massage, was shut down in March 2025 for operating without a license.
What kind of evidence was collected during the search?
Evidence included electronic transactions, ledgers, electronic devices, and condoms associated with prostitution.
How can citizens provide information regarding the case?
Citizens can contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110 or submit anonymous tips by texting TIP2APD to 847411.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Spa Owner | Jianmei Gao, 55, from Flushing, New York |
| Charges | Aiding and abetting prostitution and two counts of bribery |
| Investigation Trigger | Multiple community complaints |
| Previous Business Closure | Hope Massage shut down in March 2025 |
| Current Business | Healing Massage on Tunnel Road |
| Evidence Collected | Electronic transactions, ledgers, devices, and condoms |
| Ongoing Investigation | Additional charges may be filed |
| Contact for Information | Asheville Police Department: 828-252-1110 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Spa Owner Arrested for Illegal Activities in Asheville
Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News
- Fox Carolina
- WLOS News
- WSPA News
- Fox Carolina Video
- Wikipedia: Prostitution in the United States
- Google Search: Asheville spa owner Jianmei Gao
- Google Scholar: Prostitution Bribery Investigation Asheville
- Google News: Asheville Spa Bribery Case
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
