Federal jury finds former Davidson nail salon owner guilty of forced labor

DAVIDSON, N.C. — A federal jury in Charlotte found a former nail salon owner in Davidson guilty of forced labor.

Channel 9 first started investigating the human trafficking case in 2018.

Investigators said Tien Luong, 37, used a 49-year-old woman as a slave at her salon.

Luong abused the victim, including stabbing her with nail tools, pulling out her hair and pouring acetone on her head. She also forced the victim to repay an imaginary $180,000 debt.

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Prosecutors said this went on for nearly two years until Luong was arrested in 2018 after an investigation by Davidson police and Homeland Security.

“Davidson police officers and investigators took immediate action when this horrific crime was reported by the brave victim,” said Chief Penny L. Dunn of the Davidson Police Department. “We are extremely grateful for the quick response of Special Agents of Homeland Security and for the pursuit of justice for victims by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The case is an example of how domestic trafficking can and does happen anywhere in our nation.”

Luong was found guilty on Friday after a five-day trial.

The maximum penalty is 20 years in prison and restitution to the victim. A sentencing date has not been set yet.

“Through the infliction of mental and physical abuse, Luong despicably preyed upon the victim’s hardships and personal vulnerabilities for her own selfish financial gains,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray. “Forced labor schemes are an assault on human dignity and have no place in modern society. My office remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking and prosecuting perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.”

Former Davison nail salon owner accused of human trafficking faces federal charges Former Davison nail salon owner accused of human trafficking faces federal charges

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