OPERATION: HOT SPOTS Human Trafficking “John” Stings
District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert announces the 2nd annual “Operation: Hot Spots,” a coordinated countywide sting operation aimed at reducing the demand side of human trafficking by targeting sex buyers.
Community-based organizations from the Sacramento Together Against Human Trafficking coalition voiced the need to crack down on “Johns,” who fund and sustain the sex trafficking trade. In response, DA Anne Marie Schubert led the effort to organize this countywide operation, with a commitment from law enforcement to conduct operations throughout the year to reduce sex trafficking.
The District Attorney’s Office coordinated a training for law enforcement agencies with experts on human trafficking victims (adults and juveniles), suspect tactics/manipulations, trafficking investigations, what to look for and what evidence to collect for prosecutions as well as community resources and services available to victims of human trafficking. Victim advocates are also involved in the sting operations to assist with services.
On August 27 and 29, 2018, multiple local law enforcement agencies conducted street and hotel sting operations throughout the county. The FBI, CHP and Probation Department also participated.
Those convicted of soliciting another for prostitution or agreeing to engage in an act of prostitution, face a maximum penalty of 180 days in county jail, will be subject to search and seizure, and may be ordered to stay away from the involved locations or known “stroll” areas.
DA Schubert states, “Sacramento Together continues to work collaboratively on reducing the demand side of human trafficking by conducting countywide and localized sting operations throughout the year. By working on a united front, we are able to maximize our ability to prevent and better serve victims of sexual and labor exploitation throughout our region.”
Results of Operation: Total Number of Arrests:16
*All arrests were for soliciting for prostitution.
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department: Motel Operation
Sacramento Police Department: Street Operation
Citrus Heights Police Department: Motel Operation
Elk Grove Police Department: Motel Operation
Folsom Police Department: Motel Operation
ABOUT SACRAMENTO TOGETHER
Sacramento Together is a coalition of more than 30 law enforcement, state and local public agencies, and community-based organizations meeting regularly and working together to combat human trafficking and exploitation in our community.
The coalition works to combat human trafficking and exploitation by working together to treat, educate and remove children and young adults from life threatening situations. Working collaboratively, the coalition coordinates and maximizes community response efforts as well as utilizes all of our regional assets to better serve victims of sexual and labor exploitation. The collaboration also increases public awareness about human trafficking. For more information, visit http://sacramentotogether.org/