MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — A 54-year-old man was arrested Thursday night in connection with illegal advertising and unlicensed massage activity after Miami Beach police detectives said they launched an undercover sting at the Fontainebleau Hotel.
According to police, James Bell Johnson was taken into custody after detectives from the agency’s Human Trafficking Unit traced a series of sexually suggestive stickers plastered on public property throughout the city.
The advertisements featured a photograph of Johnson, of northeast Miami-Dade, offering “luxury massages for women,” claiming services were “private,” “discreet,” and often tipped at “$200/hour,” according to his arrest report.
The ads also promised free sessions, directing clients to a contact listed as “Jay,” the report stated.
Police said Johnson had previously been arrested in May for similar activity, including offering “clitoral stimulation” and other erotic services under the guise of massage therapy.
They said he was charged at the time with practicing massage without a license, prostitution-related offenses, conducting business without a permit and illegal distribution of flyers.
In response to continued reports of illegal flyers, detectives arranged a new undercover operation.
On Thursday, a female undercover officer contacted the number from the sticker and arranged a meeting, according to the report.
The report stated that Johnson requested a photo of the officer to confirm she was not with law enforcement and admitted to posting the ads around South Beach to promote his business.
That evening, police said Johnson arrived at the Fontainebleau Hotel carrying a massage table but appeared nervous and avoided entering the premises.
They said he eventually left the area in his black Ford Explorer, prompting officers to initiate a traffic stop on 41st Street.
After being taken into custody, Johnson was transported to the Criminal Investigations Division.
After being read his Miranda rights, investigators said Johnson admitted to the crimes.
Police confirmed that Johnson holds no license from the Florida Department of Health to perform massage therapy. A search of his SUV also revealed numerous additional flyers and promotional materials.
Authorities say Johnson’s illegal advertisements were posted in at least 10 locations across Miami Beach, resulting in an estimated $1,000 in damage for sticker removal. They say he also does not have a business license to operate in the city.
Jail records show he is facing one count each of practicing professional health care without a license and criminal mischief of $1,000 or more.
As of Friday, Johnson was being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where his bond was listed as “to be set.”
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