Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alongside the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force (SDHTTF), announced the results of the fifth annual Operation Home for the Holidays. This operation focuses on recovering individuals exploited in human trafficking, providing victim resources, holding traffickers accountable, and reducing demand for paid sex.

The multi-day undercover effort resulted in six individuals receiving support services and twelve arrests for solicitation. These cases have been referred to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office for potential prosecution.

Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized, “No matter the time of year, everyone deserves a safe place to call home. Operation Home for the Holidays stands as a vital initiative in our collective mission to protect our communities and combat human trafficking."

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan added that their goal is "to disrupt and dismantle human trafficking activities and provide support and resources to victims." San Diego Sheriff Martinez noted that an additional focus is on providing resources to help victims escape perpetrators of violent crime.

Operation Home for the Holidays involved law enforcement working undercover as sex buyers to identify potential victims and traffickers through online ads. The operation took place in National City and Encinitas with cooperation from local law enforcement agencies.

Child Welfare Services and adult and juvenile support service advocates were present during the operation to offer assistance. All individuals approached by undercover authorities were provided access to resources.

The SDHTTF comprises multiple agencies including the California Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, among others. It serves as a cooperative effort against human trafficking in Southern California.

For those forced into activities they cannot leave, help is available via the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by calling 9-1-1 if immediate danger exists.