LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A human trafficking enforcement operation led to the indictments of five people authorities claim are part of illicit massage businesses in Louisville.

Louisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control worked with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies for "Operation Deliver Justice," Mayor Craig Greenberg said Wednesday. 

As part of the operation, search warrants were served Tuesday, May 12, at three businesses across Louisville. It was part of an investigation into "allegations of human trafficking, promoting prostitution and organized criminal activity."

Businesses at 4162 Bardstown Road, 5131 Dixie Highway and 3331 Red Roof Inn Place were searched. Investigators claimed the businesses were "operating as fronts for commercial sexual exploitation."

Caleb Shobe said he watched officers swarm massage spa "Stress Away" on Tuesday.

"I never would have thought that would be going on here," Shobe said. 

Investigators also rescued five human trafficking survivors during the searches.  Three of those victims are being helped by Scarlet Hope.

"We were able to be on-site from the beginning," said Rachelle Starr, president and founder of Scarlet Hope. 

Starr devotes her life to uplifting human trafficking survivors in Louisville.

"And be able to provide not just food and clothing and care, but also a long-term plan for each of them," she said.

Court records show the alleged crimes date back to October 3, 2025. 

Felony indictments were announced Tuesday against six people on charges connected to the alleged human trafficking operation. Charges include criminal syndication, human trafficking and promoting human trafficking. 

Those indicted include:

  • 67-year-old Hyang Sun Brown
  • 57-year-old Jeonhghwa Kim
  • 80-year-old Stephen R. Stout
  • 70-year-old James K. Yoo
  • 59-year-old Yejin Jeong

A sixth person, 65-year-old Timothy Lee Brockman, was indicted posthumously. 

According to a release from the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office on Tuesday, all defendants were indicted on one count of criminal syndication engaging in organized crime, one count of human trafficking (complicity) and one count of promoting human trafficking (complicity).

Jeong and Kim were also indicted on one count each of tampering with physical evidence (complicity).

"Our job is just beginning," Metro ABC Director Brad Silveria said. "We will not rest until these types of businesses have been eradicated from this community."

The suspects are being held at Metro Corrections on a $5 million bond each. An arraignment for each suspect is scheduled for Monday, May 18 at 10 a.m.

Mugshots for Yoo, Jeong and Brockman were not immediately available. City leaders said more charges are possible as evidence is reviewed and the investigation continues.

"I hope that they can uncover more stuff like that that's going on, to stop it," said Shobe.

Investigators say the case goes beyond Jefferson County. They say New York is a hub that provides workers, and the  spas in Kentucky are connected to some in other states.

"This successful operation is a direct result of our strengthened efforts to address fraudulent massage establishments, including the establishment of a new multi-agency task force and an ordinance that helps us distinguish legitimate businesses from fraudulent ones," Greenberg said in a news release.

The arrests come as the city cracks down on illegal massage parlors. The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness now requires massage businesses in Jefferson County to get a local license as part of a broader push to shut down illegal operations.

About 1 in 10 massage businesses in the area are operating without proper authorization, the city said. Some of those locations, officials warn, may be tied to human trafficking and exploitation.

The new rule came after Metro Council passed an ordinance in November aimed at tightening oversight. Businesses have until June 1 to comply.

In October 2025, the city launched a multi-agency task force to shut down illegal massage parlors. The task force will impose stricter license and operation requirements, as well as conduct criminal investigations. 

City leaders say if you see something suspicious, say something. You can reach out to any local law enforcement agency, including Louisville Metro Police at (502) 574-LMPD (5673). Tips can be submitted anonymously.

"A very small tip can make a big difference," Silveria said.

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