Dumfries, Virginia, USA: A married Indian-American couple who managed a motel in northern Virginia have been charged by federal authorities for allegedly allowing drug trafficking and prostitution to operate from the property.

Kosha Sharma (52) and Tarun Sharma (55) are among five individuals charged following a months-long investigation into illegal activities at the Red Carpet Inn in Dumfries, located in Prince William County. Prosecutors allege the couple knowingly permitted narcotics distribution and prostitution while the motel continued regular operations.

According to court records, the Sharmas leased and ran the motel through a business entity and are accused of allowing unlawful activity on one floor of the building. Investigators claim drugs such as fentanyl and cocaine were sold at the motel, and prostitution services were arranged there over several months in 2025.

Authorities said the probe led to a coordinated law enforcement operation on January 15, 2026. Prior to the arrests, undercover officers reportedly conducted controlled drug purchases and verified prostitution-related transactions on the premises.

Three other suspects have also been charged, with prosecutors alleging all five defendants were involved in a coordinated scheme to distribute drugs and profit from the illegal operation. The case is being heard in the Eastern District of Virginia, and all accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.