California Anti-Trafficking Operation Nets 120 Arrests, Including 105 in San Diego

Overview

• Operation Stand On Demand ran Jan. 19–24 across San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno and Tulare counties with participation from at least 18 law enforcement agencies.
• Authorities reported 87 arrests for loitering under the new statute, 25 for solicitation, and eight for pimping or pandering.
• AB 379, in effect since Jan. 1, makes loitering with intent to purchase sex a misdemeanor and increases penalties for adults who solicit 16- or 17-year-olds.
• Investigators used surveillance of known hot spots and undercover officers to target suspected buyers and traffickers, with 105 arrests recorded in San Diego County locations including National City, Santee and San Marcos.
• Leaders including Attorney General Rob Bonta and District Attorney Summer Stephan emphasized referrals to survivor services, with the effort conducted during Human Trafficking Awareness Month.