“Unfortunately, sex traffickers capitalize on large-scale events such as Comic-Con to exploit their victims for profit,” said Bonta. “These arrests send a clear message to potential offenders that their criminal behavior will not be tolerated.”
Christopher Davis, acting special agent in charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Diego, emphasized the commitment to justice, stating, “When people use these events as an opportunity to prey upon minors, HSI and our law enforcement partners will find you and bring you before a court of law to face criminal charges. There is no place for alleged predators to operate in our city.”
Undercover Operations
The anti-human trafficking operation was meticulously planned, targeting both sex buyers and traffickers while focusing on recovering potential victims. Undercover law enforcement personnel posed as sex buyers to identify traffickers and potential victims, effectively dismantling criminal networks.
Additionally, undercover officers posted fake advertisements soliciting sex, aiming to attract and arrest those seeking to exploit vulnerable individuals. As a result of the operation, 14 sex buyers were apprehended, nine adult potential victims of sex trafficking were recovered and offered services, and a 16-year-old juvenile was successfully rescued.
