Secretary of State Kemp Announces Citations in Multi-County and Jurisdiction Massage Therapy Sting Operation

Atlanta – Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp announced today the results of a multi-county and jurisdiction sting operation targeting massage therapy businesses suspected of unlicensed practice and criminal behavior. The Secretary of State’s Office of Inspector General conducted the joint sting operation with the Johns Creek Police Department, Doraville Police Department, DeKalb County Police Department, Gwinnett County Police Department, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Investigators from these agencies visited nine businesses and issued 19 Cease and Desist orders for unlicensed practice of massage therapy; 18 citations for city, county and state ordinances; and made seven arrests.

“Unlicensed practice of massage therapy has been associated with criminal behavior that damages both the reputation of those who comply with the law and the communities in which these businesses operate,” said Secretary Kemp. “We will continue to partner with local law enforcement agencies and ICE to locate and investigate businesses suspected of illegal activity.”

Brian Kemp was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2010. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.

###