Over 100 arrested in north Sacramento human trafficking, prostitution sting
SACRAMENTO — More than 100 people were arrested during a two-day human trafficking and prostitution sting that happened in the north Sacramento area earlier in September, authorities said Monday.
The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office, which conducted the operation, also said two 16-year-old sex trafficking victims were rescued.
The operation targeted suspects "who exploit vulnerable people for commercial sex, with a particular focus on rescuing juveniles forced into prostitution," the sheriff's office said. Undercover investigators posed as buyers and sellers to identify victims and people involved in conducting the illegal acts.
"This sting sends a clear message to those involved in the illegal sex trade: We are committed to protecting our community from exploitation, especially our most vulnerable. Human trafficking, especially the exploitation of minors, is a serious crime, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring justice to victims," Sheriff Jim Cooper said in a statement.
Several teams were involved across the sheriff's office, the Sacramento and Rancho Cordova police departments, the California Highway Patrol, and the California Department of Justice.
OPERATION FAFOOPERATION FAFO LEADS TO OVER 100 ARRESTS IN MAJOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND PROSTITUTION STING, TWO JUVENILES RESCUED A multi-agency human trafficking and prostitution sting operation led by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has resulted in the arrest of over 100 individuals and the rescue of two juveniles from the sex trade. The operation, which took place over two days, was part of a concentrated effort to combat human trafficking and exploitation in Sacramento County. During the sting, law enforcement officers posed as undercover buyers and sellers, identifying those involved in illegal activities. The operation targeted individuals who exploit vulnerable people for commercial sex, with a particular focus on rescuing juveniles forced into prostitution. Over 100 individuals were arrested on charges related to prostitution, solicitation, and trafficking. The operation also led to the identification and rescue of two juveniles, both 16-years-old, who were being trafficked for sex. These young victims are now receiving care and services to help them recover from their traumatic experiences and transition to a safer, healthier environment. Sheriff Cooper praised the successful operation, stating: “This sting sends a clear message to those involved in the illegal sex trade: we are committed to protecting our community from exploitation, especially our most vulnerable. Human trafficking, especially the exploitation of minors, is a serious crime, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring justice to victims.” The Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) Detectives, collaborated with the North, South, East and the Rancho Cordova Police Department Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Teams, Sacramento County Special Enforcement Detail (SED), Rancho Cordova Police Crime Suppression Unit (CSU), Sheriff’s Work Project, the Sheriff’s Drone Unit, California Highway Patrol SACCATS, the California Department of Justice Human Trafficking Team, and victim advocate groups Drive for Impact and the Sacramento Family Justice Center to make this operation a success. The team utilized less conventional resources, including drone technology, intelligence gathering, and readily available resources for victims to ensure the operation’s success. The Sheriff’s Office urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to human trafficking. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 916-874-5115 for help and resources.
Posted by Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, September 30, 2024