Sheriff: 474 arrests in Calif. human trafficking sting; 28 children rescued
LOS ANGELES - Authorities say 474 people have been arrested in a multiday sting operation focused on human trafficking in California.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell said Tuesday the arrests came after a three-day operation conducted by 30 law enforcement agencies across the state last week.
Investigators say as part of the sting, undercover officers posed as prostitutes on street corners and also posted advertisements online.
Officials say three dozen people were arrested on suspicion of being pimps.
They say officers also rescued 28 children who were being sexually exploited, and 27 adults they identified as victims of sex trafficking.
McDonnell says the arrests represent a “very sad commentary on the condition we’re dealing with.”
District Attorney Jackie Lacey says authorities won’t tolerate children being sexually exploited.