VIRGINIA — A year-long investigation by the Virginia State Police spanning multiple jurisdictions has led to several arrests and the dismantling of an alleged prostitution ring, according to Floyd Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric Branscom.
Authorities said the investigation involved Roanoke, Floyd County, and Rockbridge County. Officials allege the prostitution ring was operated out of Amanda’s Touch on Peters Creek Road in Roanoke, as well as additional locations in Rockbridge County. The investigation resulted in multiple racketeering charges, with officials stating that each person involved is accused of handling more than $10,000 in illegal proceeds.
State police said investigators connected Earl Wayne Smith, who was already a suspect in an ongoing drug distribution investigation in Floyd County, to the alleged prostitution operation that extended into Rockbridge County and Roanoke.
Another suspect, Jose Jorge Sanchez, appeared in court for a bond hearing Tuesday. During the hearing, Sanchez told the court he is from Roanoke and requested to return home.
During cross-examination, prosecutors noted that Sanchez has two prior charges for carrying a concealed weapon and three prior charges for failure to appear, though no previous felony convictions. Floyd County Circuit Court Judge Michael Fleenor denied Sanchez’s bond request.
The investigation remains ongoing.
