46 people arrested in alleged sex trafficking operation

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The State of California Department of Justice on Wednesday announced the arrest of 46 people suspected of human trafficking, sexual exploitation and other criminal offenses from an undercover sting operation conducted in San Diego and National City.

Operation Better Pathways, which lasted from March 5 until March 27, consisted of authorities posed as individuals offering sex for sale to sex buyers at the aforementioned areas known for sexual exploitation, Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a news release. The sex buyers were then directed to an alternate location and arrested, state officials said.

“Human trafficking and sexual exploitation destroy lives,” Bonta said. “Through Operation Better Pathways, we’re fighting to hold perpetrators accountable and help survivors with support and services. This initiative serves as a powerful example of how the implementation of public safety measures can effectively intervene in breaking the cycle of violence and abuse.”

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San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed the city’s relentless efforts to stop predators from targeting the most vulnerable in the community.

“The results of Operation Better Pathways are further proof that SDPD and its partners in the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force are committed to protecting San Diegans from the dangers of human trafficking,” Gloria said.

During the operation, 20 individuals — including seven children — were offered support services, per officials.

The arrests, which range from human trafficking of a minor to assault with a deadly weapon, will be referred to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, San Diego City Attorney’s Office, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California for potential criminal prosecution, according to Bonta.

It was the second such operation in the county, following another major sting last year that led to the arrest of 48 suspects and rescue of 16 trafficking victims — including eight children.

If you or someone you know is being forced to engage in any activity and cannot leave, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 to access help and services. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

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