14 arrested and one rescued during recent trafficking operation

The El Dorado County Sheriff's Department joined forces with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and El Dorado County District Attorney's Office in conducting "Victim Centered," to identify human trafficking victims and suspects.

They began the investigation by looking into escort/ dating sites on the internet and those ads coming from El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park and Placerville. The main purpose of the investigation was to identify the human trafficking victims who are being prostituted and to identify the suspects who are pimping and trafficking these victims in El Dorado County.

On Thursday, December 15, the team hit the streets and rescued one 17-year-old from trafficking and arrested or cited 14 people for various violations. Four people were arrested for violations to include two for prostitution, two for felony no bail warrants and one for an outstanding misdemeanor warrant. Nine suspects were cited for prostitution and one was cited for possession of methamphetamine.

The operation focused on younger looking prostitutes on the internet who are working in El Dorado County. By targeting younger looking prostitutes, the goal was to rescue minor victims who are being trafficked. Once victims of human trafficking were identified and contacted, appropriate enforcement action was taken. In addition, the victim met with advocates who assisted them in receiving appropriate services.

A total of 25 Detectives, Investigators and victim witness advocates participated in the operation.