Albany, NY (WRGB) — Qingqin Xie, a 39-year-old Chinese national, was detained following her arrest on charges of using interstate commerce facilities to manage a prostitution business. According to a criminal complaint, Xie operated spas across the Capital Region that offered massage services but also engaged in commercial sex acts. She allegedly used internet-based advertisements, many of which were sexually explicit, to promote her businesses.

In October 2024, law enforcement searched Xie's Moon Spa in East Greenbush, New York, and seized evidence of commercial sex acts. Despite this, Xie continued to operate similar spas, employing women to engage in sex acts with customers.

Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said,

As alleged, Xie, who does not have lawful status in the United States, ran a prostitution business out of massage parlors and failed to stop even after law enforcement searched one of those parlors last year. My Office will continue to work with our partners to ensure those who sexually exploit people for profit are held accountable.

Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the FBI, stated,

As alleged, Ms. Xie was operating an extensive commercial sex enterprise, using multiple massage parlors as a cover for prostitution. This arrest should send a message that the FBI, together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, will investigate and shut down these disturbing illicit businesses and ensure those who operate them are brought to justice.

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James added,

The culmination of this investigation would not have been possible without the dedication, hard work, and expertise of our partners in law enforcement. As charged, this individual had no regard for the impact their actions would have on the safety and well-being of others. Intercepting illegal businesses will continue to be a top priority and integral part of protecting our communities from the associated harm they bring.

Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations, said,

Qingqin Xie is accused of running an elaborate prostitution scheme spanning the Capital Region. The alleged crimes demonstrate a brazen disregard for the sanctity of U.S. law and wellbeing of the New York public. I commend HSI Albany and our many law enforcement partners for ensuring she faces the consequences of her alleged actions.

The charge against Xie carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The FBI, NYSP, IRS-CI, and HSI are investigating the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Kopita prosecuting. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces operation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations.

FONDA, N.Y. — More than 200 people gathered to celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, a pivotal piece of American history, by paddling nine scenic miles of the Mohawk River from Fonda to Port Jackson. The event concluded at Riverlink Park with an evening of live music, food, fireworks, and historic exhibits.

Morgan McClary, Director of Communications for Montgomery County, emphasized the canal's significance to the region. "The Erie Canal has deep roots of history here in Montgomery County," McClary said. "The Waterway is one of our best recreational assets and all of the canal communities along our county all thrive because of the Erie Canal and its history of starting 200 years ago."

The Erie Canal, known as the nation's first major highway, was the first navigable waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes.