Riverside, CA – Two individuals have been arrested and charged in connection with a human trafficking investigation in Riverside County, following the disappearance of two teenage girls who had run away from a local group home earlier this year.
Authorities say both girls were lured into prostitution in the Los Angeles area before being safely located and returned.
Investigation Triggered by Runaway Teens
The investigation began in May, when the Riverside Police Department was alerted that two juvenile girls had gone missing from a group home in the area. Detectives quickly discovered that the teens were likely being exploited through sex trafficking, and had been operating in and around Los Angeles under the control of suspected pimps.
According to police, the girls were identified as potential victims of human trafficking and had been involved in prostitution during their time away. After being safely found and returned to care, the department’s Special Investigations Bureau launched a comprehensive operation to track those responsible for their exploitation.
Two Suspects in Custody
After weeks of investigation, detectives arrested 23-year-old Bonnie Edney Fingerson in Santa Clara County on July 26. As reported by KTLA, she is facing multiple felony charges including:
- Human trafficking of a minor
- Enticing a minor into prostitution
- Pimping a minor under age 16
- Aiding and abetting a prostitute
Fingerson is being held on $85,000 bail.
The second suspect, 28-year-old Michael Jay Johnson of Los Angeles, was taken into custody three days later, on July 29. Johnson is also facing serious charges:
- Human trafficking of a minor
- Pimping a minor under 16
- Lewd and lascivious acts with a child
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Parole violation
Authorities revealed that Johnson is a known gang member and was already on parole for pimping a minor at the time of his arrest. He is currently being held on $200,000 bail.
Official Warning on Teen Runaways
The Riverside Police Department issued a strong message to the public in the wake of the arrests.
“The reality is that when teens run away, they face immediate and serious risks,” said Lieutenant Matt Lackey. “Within hours, they can become targets for predators, fall victim to human trafficking, or be subjected to other violent crimes.”
He urged parents and guardians to maintain open communication with their children, report runaways immediately, and collaborate with law enforcement to aid in quick recoveries.
Dangers of Human Trafficking and Prevention Tips
Human trafficking often preys on vulnerable youth, especially those who are homeless, runaways, or in foster care. The trauma inflicted can be lifelong. Here’s how to help protect teens from falling victim:
- Monitor social media and online interactions, where many traffickers first contact victims.
- Know the signs: unexplained absences, expensive gifts, secretive behavior, or new older friends could be red flags.
- Build trust and encourage communication within families and schools.
- Support local programs that provide services and safe housing to at-risk youth.
Community Responsibility
This case highlights the importance of quick reporting, public vigilance, and the tireless efforts of law enforcement in combatting human trafficking in local communities.
Have thoughts on how to protect youth from exploitation? Share your insights in the comment section below.
