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The once illuminated “open” signs at two Harlingen tattoo shops have been taken down or turned off.
The closures follow an Action 4 News investigation that exposed how “Fine Line Tattoo” and "Addiction” in were illegally without a state license.
Josh Renteria worked at "Addiction.”
Ryan: "So you're saying you are operating with a license?”
Josh: “Yea. I mean we wouldn't be here if we didn't have one."
Turns out that was incorrect.
Records we dug up showed neither business went through the proper channels to legally do tattoo work.
That means they went unchecked and unregulated for what appears to be months when it came to state safety procedures and health standards.
JR Vega says he's worried for the community.
"There's a lot of diseases going around... the needles could be dirty... the place could be dirty," Vega said.
A source with the state health department says both businesses in question have voluntarily removed all their equipment and now they'll be checking to make sure that signs saying "tattoo" are removed as well.
Both workers we confronted last week claimed to be safe saying new needles were used and sterilization practices followed.
But when we asked to see proof at "Addiction” this happened:
Josh: "Of course you can't show anything… You got to keep it away from everyone else.”
Ryan: “So where is it that you keep it (sterilization equipment) ?
Josh: “It's in there.”
Ryan: “Can we see it?”
Josh: “What do you have to see it for?"
The state warns potential customers to do their homework first or the body art may end up a permanent curse.
You can check for licensed tattoo parlors in your zip code, through the Texas Department of Health website:
http://dshsreg2.dshs.state.tx.us/bfds/dmd/establishments/index.php
