Massage center fronts for brothel, say Toms River police

A wellness center in Toms River apparently stretched the definition of the term too far.

The owner of Redwoods Wellness Center has been arrested for running a house of prostitution, according to township police.

The arrest of Nina X. Meng, 56 of Berkeley Township, stems from a four-month investigation that was capped by raids at the massage therapy center on Lakehurst Road, and her Edgebrook Drive residence in Berkeley Township.

A second defendant, James M. O'Brien, also listed as living in the Berkeley Township dwelling, has yet to be apprehended.

Local police executed search warrants January 4, in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Enforcement Removal Operaiton Unit, and the Ocean County Prosecutor's Special Operations Group.

Police said that their investigations, and evidence seized during the searches, confirmed their speculations.

Authorities disclosed that the possibility of human trafficking is a component of the investigation, which is still open.

Anyone familiar with O'Brien, or his whereabouts, is encouraged to e-mail Toms River PD Detective Thomas Grosse, or reach him by phone at 732-349-0150, extension 1263.