MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—An Illinois man was sentenced to eight months in prison on Tuesday for his involvement in a suspected prostitution ring operating from a spa in Marion County. That sentence is a fraction of what Marion Prosecutor Ray Grogan promised at the time Peng was arrested. Grogan told media outlets that each first-degree felony could bring eleven years in prison.
Xiaoping Peng, who pleaded guilty last month to one count of promoting prostitution, served as a courier, transporting money and women across state lines for sex work at the establishment located at 1288 Delaware Ave.
Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan stated that Peng is the first and only arrest made in connection with the suspected ring thus far, but he has provided crucial information that could lead to further charges against others involved. The investigation into the spa began after residents in Marion voiced concerns about potential sexual exploitation occurring at the business.
While prosecutors acknowledged Peng’s significant role in the operation, they clarified that he was not the “mastermind.”
During the sentencing, Peng, aided by an interpreter, expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I’m very sorry, Your Honor, for what I did. I am very sorry to the people of Marion County. I’m ashamed of it. I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” as translated by the interpreter.
Peng received an eight-month prison sentence, with credit for 225 days already served. That means Peng could complete his sentence in mere days.
Both the prosecution and defense noted that Peng entered the country illegally and sought asylum. It is anticipated that the Department of Homeland Security will pursue his deportation upon the completion of his local sentence. Prosecutors believe that the plea agreement may lead to additional charges in the ongoing investigation.