McAllen police: Woman accused of prostitution now facing federal gun charge

McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A woman accused of prostitution at a massage parlor is now facing a federal gun charge, the McAllen Police Department announced in an update on Monday.

Jassel Mercedes Torres Romero, 44, was originally charged with one count of prostitution, a Class B misdemeanor on Friday. Police say Romero was released to federal custody on Saturday.

Romero is now being charged with illegal alien in possession of a firearm, a federal offense, according to a news release from the McAllen Police Department.

McAllen police announced last week that two women were arrested during an investigation into a massage parlor located on the 4300 block of N. 10th Street.

Ana Rosa Cabrera Granados, 39, was the other woman identified in the investigation and was charged with six counts of prostitution, a Class B misdemeanor. Her bond was set at $30,000.

McAllen police continue to investigate this case alongside state and federal agencies. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may follow.

Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact the McAllen Crime Stoppers at (956) 687-TIPS (8477).