A Virginia bridal shop owner issued a statement attempting to distance herself and her three stores from her father who has been charged for bawdy behavior that allegedly took place in the backroom of a Roanoke location.
Amanda’s Touch, with locations in Waynesboro, Harrisonburg and Roanoke, was founded by Amanda Cash and has been in business for nearly three decades.
Earl Wayne Smith was charged after an extensive investigation by Virginia State Police in Roanoke and Rockbridge County.
Augusta Free Press wrote about the alleged human trafficking and prostitution ring almost one year ago.
Recently, however, as salacious details leak out about the alleged human trafficking and prostitution ring, the bridal shop has been at the center of unfavorable news, as a backroom was allegedly used after-hours in the operation.
According to multiple reports, Smith has been accused of paying women or offering free rent in exchange for sex and meeting up in a backroom for the illegal acts.
ICYMI
Cash said in her statement that she wanted to clarify that the alleged unlawful activity did not happen during business hours or in dressing rooms.
The illegal activities, she said, “occurred in a backroom with a separate exterior entrance, accessed after hours, when the store was closed. The backroom was not the bridal shop, did not reflect our work, and was not what Amanda’s Touch is or ever has been.”
Cash said she had “no knowledge” of her father’s actions and has been estranged from him for years.
“Each new detail that comes out brings a deeper sense of shock, disappointment and heartbreak,” she said. “I am still trying to process how someone I once knew could be capable of what is being alleged.
“Whatever happened in that backroom was not Amanda’s Touch. Amanda’s Touch is the result of 28 years of hard work, built from the ground up to serve brides and families during some of the happiest moments of their lives. It is a business rooted in care, trust and integrity.
“My heart goes out to anyone who may have been harmed or victimized. If people were exploited or hurt, I am deeply sorry for what they endured. No one deserves that.”
Cash said that she and her employees are in shock, but they are thankful for support from the communities they serve.
“I am devastated by what has come to light, but I am deeply grateful for the many messages of kindness, understanding and support that have been shared with me and my staff during this incredibly painful time, and we remain committed to meeting our obligations to our customers and doing everything we can to help ensure their celebrations are the very best they can be.”
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Crystal Graham
