Human Trafficking Bust at Comic-Con: 14 Arrests and Multiple Victims Rescued in San Diego
14 individuals have been apprehended in a recent operation targeting sex trafficking during San Diego Comic-Con. Authorities have recovered ten potential victims, one of whom is a 16-year-old girl.
Several individuals were apprehended following a human trafficking sting operation conducted by California authorities during San Diego Comic-Con. Additionally, ten individuals who were at risk were also saved.
In a press release on Tuesday, July 30, the California Department of Justice announced that the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force (SDHTTF) conducted an operation focused on rescuing victims of sex trafficking and apprehending individuals seeking to engage in such activities at the San Diego Comic-Con Convention.
Law enforcement apprehended 14 individuals and rescued 10 potential victims during a three-day operation, according to an official statement. Out of the 10 individuals who were saved, nine are adults while one is 16 years old. Child Welfare Services and other relevant agencies were present to offer assistance and support.
According to the release, Attorney General Rob Bonta highlighted how sex traffickers often take advantage of major events like Comic-Con to exploit their victims for financial gain.
Every year, approximately 100,000 fans flock to San Diego for the highly anticipated comic book and pop culture event.
“These arrests send a clear message to potential offenders that their criminal behavior will not be tolerated. We are grateful to all our dedicated partners involved in the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, whose collaboration has been invaluable. We take great pride in our office’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable Californians by offering them assistance and guidance when they need it most.”
During the sting operation, undercover law enforcement agents posed as sex buyers in order to identify potential victims and the individuals responsible for trafficking them. Advertisements were also posted undercover to target individuals seeking sexual services.
“There is no more insidious crime than human trafficking,” added San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martinez in the release. “The coercion and violence which enslaves people for profit and places them into forced labor or sex is criminal. As the Sheriff I support the efforts of all our justice partners in holding perpetrators accountable. I appreciate the focus that was placed on the recent convention to identify and rescue victims of human trafficking.”
The San Diego Comic Convention expressed their concern over the recent arrests, stating that they find the situation disturbing. Although they were not informed about the operation, they believe that the arrests took place outside of the event. We have a strong partnership with various law enforcement agencies and are always prepared to provide assistance whenever needed.
Source: PEOPLE
