Kevin I. Jasper, 56, Jianyang Chen, 48, and Hong Wong, 38, all of New York City, were arrested
LAWRENCE -- Authorities have arrested three people in a human trafficking and prostitution bust at the Red Roof Inn in Lawrence.
Lawrence police said that an eight-month investigation between the police department, the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office and the Department of Homeland Security resulted in the arrests Sunday.
Police say that Kevin I. Jasper, 56, and Jianying Chen, 48, both of New York City, transported several Asian women from the city to the Red Roof Inn to engage in prostitution. The money was then turned over to Jasper.
Jasper and Chen, who also goes by the name Jianying Collins, used online escort sites to promote their criminal activity, police said.
Both were charged with one count of first-degree human trafficking and three counts of third-degree promoting prostitution. They were held at the Mercer County Corrections Center on $150,000 bail.
Hong Wang, 38, also of New York City, was arrested and charged with two counts of engaging in prostitution. He was released on a summons.
The investigation remains ongoing and Lawrence police say they are attempting to identify additional victims.
Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find NJ.com on Facebook.