News Summary
A multi-agency investigation led to the arrest of three individuals in connection with human trafficking and money laundering activities in Metro Detroit. The operation disguised the exploitation of female victims as legitimate massage services across Novi, Farmington, and Livonia. Victims reportedly faced harsh working conditions, and authorities have emphasized the importance of community awareness and reporting suspicious activities to combat such crimes.
Novi, Michigan – Three individuals have been arrested following a multi-agency investigation into alleged human trafficking and money laundering activities that spanned three metro Detroit cities: Novi, Farmington, and Livonia. The operation, which involved the exploitation of female victims under the pretense of legitimate massage services, was carried out by the West Bloomfield Township Police Department’s SONIC Task Force.
The arrests stemmed from an anonymous tip, and the investigation has been ongoing for six months. Law enforcement found that many of the victims had been transported from out of state and coerced into providing sexual services without proper working conditions. Reports indicated that these victims frequently worked 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, often faced language barriers, and lacked access to transportation.
Among those arrested, two women have been charged in connection to the trafficking ring. Runping “Lisa” Huang, 61, from Southfield, and Chunxiu “Eva” Xu, 46, from Farmington Hills, are facing serious charges. Huang is charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Human Trafficking Enterprise for the purpose of forced labor
- Human Trafficking Enterprise for the purpose of Commercial Sexual Activity
- Accepting Earnings through Prostitution
- Transporting Person(s) for Purpose of Prostitution
Xu faces charges that include:
- Human Trafficking Enterprise for the purpose of Forced Labor
- Transporting Person(s) for Purpose of Prostitution
Both women made appearances in court on May 31, where Huang was held on a $50,000 bond and Xu on a $150,000 bond. Their cases are part of a larger effort to combat human trafficking, as reported by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, which has presented a total of 27 cases against human traffickers since November 2024.
The collaborative investigation involved several law enforcement agencies, including the Novi Police, Farmington Hills Police, and Shelby Township Police. Investigators are also pursuing a third suspect linked to the trafficking operation, although details about this individual have not yet been disclosed.
In response to this troubling situation, local police commanders have emphasized the need for proactive measures to combat human trafficking within communities. Furthermore, the victims of this trafficking scheme are currently receiving critical resources and support, which include housing and counseling services, to aid in their recovery and reintegration into society.
The West Bloomfield Township Police Department’s SONIC Task Force continues to advocate for awareness about the signs of human trafficking and the importance of reporting suspicious activities to protect vulnerable individuals in the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Raids in Michigan Spark Controversy Over Free Speech
Additional Resources
- WXYZ: Women Charged for Alleged Human Trafficking
- Fox2Detroit: Human Trafficking Ring Busted
- CBS News: Two Women Charged in Human Trafficking
- MSN: Human Trafficking Ring Busted in Metro Detroit
- Wikipedia: Human Trafficking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Human Trafficking
- CBS News: Human Trafficking and Money Laundering
- The Oakland Press: Officials: Human Trafficking Ring Busted
- MSN: Human Trafficking Ring Busted in Oakland County
- Google Search: Human Trafficking Resources
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland 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 Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
