Central Valley, Visalia – A combined effort of multiple law enforcement agencies has led to the apprehension of nine men and the rescue of six women in a significant human sex trafficking operation in Central Valley, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office confirmed.
Throughout the past week, detectives from the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office Human Trafficking Unit teamed up with the Visalia Police Department, Tulare Police Department, and Merced County District Attorney’s Office. They undertook a meticulous operation targeting human sex trafficking in Visalia, a notable hotspot for such activities.
The joint venture aimed to pinpoint individuals who solicit women for intimate acts in return for money through various escort services. Equally paramount was the goal to reach out to potential human trafficking victims, offering them critical services and aid to break free from their oppressive circumstances.
The suspects, hailing from Bakersfield, Visalia, Exeter, and Woodlake, faced arrest under the suspicion of solicitation of prostitution. Among those arrested are Elijah Edwards, Ernest McCormick, Andrew Randolph, and Jose Javier Rojas Herrera, among others. The Tulare County Human Trafficking detectives highlighted their success in freeing six women ensnared in the trafficking ring while also executing a felony warrant.
Authorities continue to urge residents to be vigilant. Those who suspect they are trapped in such illicit activities, or if they know someone at risk, are encouraged to step forward. The Central Valley sex trafficking industry remains vast and is often hard to identify. Local law enforcement, however, are committed to rescuing victims and prosecuting those responsible for the horrific crimes.
If you or someone you know is a victim of sex trafficking, there’s hope. Reach out to the Women’s Rights Group in California. We offer confidential, legal assistance with no upfront costs — because you deserve justice. Remember, we charge zero fees until we win. Contact us today for support.
