Dozens of sex workers and their johns busted after capitalizing on San Diego Comic-Con: Ugly truth

A major sting operation conducted in San Diego during Comic Con weekend has resulted in dozens of arrests for alleged sex solicitation and prostitution.Undercover agents with the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force (SDHTTF) initiated contact with sex buyers throughout the county, resulting in 27 arrests for “solicitation, loitering for purposes of solicitation, or other related offenses” during a three-day operation, according to a press release from the California Department of Justice.Operation Iron Justice — which took place from July 22-24 — focused on stopping the demand for commercial sex services surrounding large-scale events like the annual gathering in the city for fans of comic book movies, TV, merchandise and more.Officers also recovered seven adults, and two underage sex workers — including a 16-year-old who had been missing from San Bernardino county — all who were allegedly sex trafficking victims.“The ugly truth is that the demand for these illegal services fuels the supply of commercial sex operations and human trafficking,” Attorney General Rob Bonta said about the operation.“No matter if it’s around large-scale conventions or anywhere else, solicitation is a crime and California stands ready to hold offenders accountable,” he continued.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

Please provide a valid email.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Never miss a story U.S.Attorney Adam Gordon said Operation Iron Justice highlights the coordinated work of local, state and federal agencies to combat sex trafficking, adding that federal prosecutors are prepared to pursue charges carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences of 10 to 15 years against traffickers.San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, said this operation makes it crystal clear “human beings are not for sale.” California...