Family-run massage-parlor ring convicted of pimping and money-laundering in Ventura County
A Ventura County jury convicted Xiangwei Ma, her husband Ming Ma, brother Xiangdong Ma and sister Li Ma of felonies linked to a decade-long prostitution and human-trafficking scheme operating through fake massage parlors.
Ventura County authorities uncovered a sprawling pimping network run by Xiangwei Ma, her husband Ming Ma, brother Xiangdong Ma and sister Li Ma, who disguised brothels as legitimate massage businesses like Miracle Massage and A+ Massage. The scheme, active for more than ten years, trafficked women from China and generated at least $1.25 million, which was funneled through financial institutions, life-insurance policies, casinos and property transactions, including a disputed short-sale on Crowne Oak Lane in Simi Valley.
The investigation was sparked in 2020 by anonymous letters, and online reviews had previously flagged suspicious activity at the venues. Xiangwei Ma, who had earlier served an 18-month sentence for attempted pandering, allegedly reclaimed leadership after her release, using straw owners to hide her involvement. A fifth defendant, Jaime Calderon, pleaded guilty to money-laundering in 2023. All four family members were taken into custody after the jury verdicts and face prison terms ranging from eight to 17 years, with asset seizure proceedings underway.
Why it matters
The case highlights how legitimate-looking businesses can conceal large-scale human-trafficking and money-laundering operations.
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