San Diego, CA – A targeted anti-human trafficking operation held during Comic-Con International weekend in San Diego resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals accused of attempting to purchase sex, the California Attorney General’s Office announced Thursday.
Undercover Operation Targets Demand
The sting took place from July 24 to 26, as law enforcement officers conducted undercover operations throughout San Diego County to initiate contact with suspected sex buyers. All 13 arrests were made on suspicion of solicitation, authorities confirmed.
This marks the second consecutive year of such operations during Comic-Con, with 14 arrests and 10 potential sex trafficking victims recovered in 2024 as reported by Times of San Diego.
Part of a Broader Annual Effort
The enforcement was led by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, a multi-agency unit comprising federal and state law enforcement along with local prosecutors. Their goal: disrupt the commercial sex industry and intercept possible human trafficking activity during high-traffic events like Comic-Con.
While not all commercial sex is directly linked to trafficking, officials noted that increased demand often leads traffickers to exploit and coerce vulnerable individuals into sex work.
State Officials Emphasize Accountability
California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a stern warning following the arrests:
“Solicitation is a crime, and these arrests send a clear message to potential offenders that we stand ready to hold them accountable.”
Bonta also reiterated the state’s continued commitment to dismantling trafficking networks and supporting survivors through a combination of enforcement, prosecution, and victim services.
Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking Continue Year-Round
The Comic-Con sting is part of a broader year-round effort by the California Department of Justice, which works closely with the Bureau of Investigation’s Human Trafficking Task Force. These operations often take place around major events and holidays when trafficking-related activity tends to spike.
Authorities encourage residents to report any suspicious behavior related to potential trafficking and to remain vigilant, particularly during major events that draw tourists and large crowds.
Dangers of Human Trafficking and Exploitation
Sex trafficking remains a widespread and underreported crime, often involving the exploitation of minors and vulnerable adults. Law enforcement stresses that demand is one of the primary driving forces behind the trade, and targeting buyers is a key strategy in disrupting the cycle of exploitation.
What’s your view on how events like Comic-Con affect local crime patterns? Share your thoughts in the comments.
