A Bettendorf woman, 58-year-old Heling Di, has been arrested following an extensive police investigation into suspected human trafficking and prostitution activities linked to multiple massage parlors in the Quad Cities area. Authorities say Di managed Ming Spa, where undercover operations and witness accounts revealed that sexual acts were being exchanged for money. The Bettendorf human trafficking case has drawn significant attention from both law enforcement and the public.
Di now faces multiple felony charges, including ongoing criminal activity, pandering, conspiracy to commit non-forcible felonies, and pimping. She also faces a misdemeanor charge for being ineligible to carry weapons. According to court documents, Di played a central role in the day-to-day operations of the massage parlor, with surveillance showing her transporting workers to and from the spa, which was confirmed by lease agreements listing her as the tenant of the workers’ residence.
Digital and Physical Evidence Strengthens Case
The investigation revealed significant evidence linking Di to the alleged illicit activities. Authorities discovered advertisements on a known prostitution website featuring the name, address, and phone number of Ming Spa. Further searches of Di’s phone uncovered related images, reinforcing suspicions of her involvement in promoting prostitution.
Additionally, law enforcement discovered numerous online reviews of the spa detailing sexual services, further corroborating customer claims. On Thursday, police executed search warrants at three businesses: Ming Spa at 2334 Spruce Hills Drive, Suite B; Ming Spa at 868 Middle Road; and Elite Massage at 1980 Spruce Hills Drive. These raids resulted in the collection of physical evidence of sexual activity within the spa premises, as well as large sums of money recovered from Di’s residence, the spas, and the apartments where the workers lived.
A firearm was also recovered from Di’s home, leading to the misdemeanor weapons charge.
Victim Support and Ongoing Investigation
Police made contact with several suspected victims of human trafficking during the raids conducted as part of the Bettendorf human trafficking case. Rather than being treated as criminals, the individuals were offered immediate support services and connected with advocacy groups to assist with recovery and protection. Law enforcement emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and additional charges or arrests could follow as new evidence emerges in the Bettendorf human trafficking case.
Di is currently being held at the Scott County Jail with a bond set at $41,000. Bettendorf police continue to delve into the full scope of the trafficking network and are urging the public to come forward with any information that may aid the investigation.
This Bettendorf human trafficking case marks a significant development in ongoing efforts by local authorities to combat human trafficking and illegal sex trade operations disguised as legitimate businesses.
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