A man has been arrested after an investigation into the Blue Jade Spa in Pittsboro led to multiple charges. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office arrested 37-year-old Chao Li of Garner for charges taken out by the Pittsboro Police Department. Police say Li is one of the owners of the spa and has been charged with:

  • Promoting prostitution — Advanced (Felony)
  • Aiding and abetting prostitution (Misdemeanor)
  • Unlicensed practice of massage/body work (Misdemeanor)
  • Advertising without a license (Misdemeanor)

The Pittsboro Police say Li posted a $3,000 bond for the misdemeanor charges and is being held on the felony charge. He is scheduled for appear in Chatham County Court Wednesday, April 22. Police also say the Blue Jade Spa case remains under active investigation. No additional information has been released at this time.

The Blue Jade Spa, located at 579 West Street in Pittsboro, first came under scrutiny when the Pittsboro Police received a community complaint for suspicious activity in October 2025. According to police, the complainant alleged the business was illegal and unlicensed. Concerns were also raised about individuals reportedly residing at the business and “rarely leaving the premises.”

Police say they investigated the spa for five months and developed probable cause indicating illegal sexual activity and potential human trafficking were occurring at the business. Officers executed a search warrant April 10 but did not make an arrest at that point.

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