A major federal investigation has revealed an extensive brothel operation spanning Massachusetts and Washington, D.C., allegedly generating over a million dollars in revenue. The case, led by the Department of Homeland Security, has resulted in charges against three individuals: James Lee of California, and Han Lee and Junmyung Lee of Massachusetts.
According to an affidavit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, the trio operated the service since 2020, utilizing high-end apartments in both Massachusetts and the suburbs of Washington, D.C. DHS Special Agent Zachary Mitlitsky noted the meticulous record-keeping of the operation, particularly highlighting Han Lee’s role and her significant earnings from this illegal enterprise.
The affidavit detailed substantial financial transactions, including $965,000 in cash deposits to Han Lee’s bank accounts from December 2019 to October 2023. It also suggested that she may have access to additional foreign accounts. The Department of Justice charged the accused earlier this month, following the operation’s exposure. If convicted, they each face up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and fines up to $250,000.
Prosecutors disclosed that the brothels operated in apartment complexes in Fairfax and Tysons, Virginia. The defendants are alleged to have managed apartment rentals and arranged transportation and flights for the prostitutes. The operation was advertised with rates ranging from $350 to $600, requiring clients to provide extensive personal and professional information, including employer details and references.
The clientele reportedly included a range of professionals such as politicians, pharmaceutical executives, doctors, military officers, government contractors with security clearances, professors, lawyers, business executives, technology company executives, scientists, accountants, retail employees, and students. The investigation has identified potentially hundreds of customers from various professional fields, although the Department of Justice has not yet released specific details about these clients.
