RIVERSIDE, California — In a concerted effort to reduce demand for illicit activities, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department executed a targeted anti-sex trafficking operation, commonly known as a “John” operation, in the city of Perris. The operation culminated in the apprehension of 16 individuals on various charges related to prostitution and human trafficking.
The primary objective of the operation was to apprehend individuals soliciting prostitutes, ultimately aiming to dismantle the network of human traffickers and offer assistance to potential victims. The crackdown, which took place on April 4, 2024, resulted in a significant number of arrests.
According to law enforcement authorities, the operation yielded the arrest of 14 male suspects believed to be soliciting prostitution. Additionally, one female was taken into custody on charges of child neglect, while a juvenile male faces accusations of pimping, evading arrest, and endangering a child.
During the operation, another female was identified as a potential victim of sex trafficking. She was promptly provided with victim services, underscoring the multifaceted approach taken by law enforcement to address the complexities of human trafficking.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to combating sex trafficking and related offenses through proactive operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and safeguarding vulnerable individuals within the community.
