Thousand Oaks, CA — A large-scale anti-trafficking effort in Ventura County culminated in the arrest of six men as part of an extensive statewide crackdown targeting commercial sex buyers. The operation, which unfolded on October 22, was conducted in Thousand Oaks by detectives with the Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force (VCHTTF).
The arrests were made during “Operation Trick R Treat,” a 10-day statewide initiative spearheaded by the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force. This coordinated campaign aimed to disrupt demand within the sex trade — a driving factor law enforcement agencies say fuels human trafficking.
Focus on Targeting Sex Buyers
According to officials, the 2024 effort was strategically designed to target individuals attempting to buy sex.
“This year’s operation primarily focused on apprehending commercial sex buyers — commonly referred to as ‘tricks’ in the commercial sex industry,” the sheriff’s department said in a statement.
Detectives conducted undercover operations in the Thousand Oaks region, engaging suspects who allegedly attempted to solicit prostitution before being taken into custody.
Authorities Release Identities of the Six Arrested Men
On November 13, Ventura County authorities released the names and ages of the suspects arrested for alleged solicitation of prostitution. As per KTLA, all six individuals are residents of Ventura County cities:
- Kerolos Nasralla, 20, Moorpark
- Christopher Kilbert, 37, Oxnard
- Mauricio Jimenez Jr., 42, Oxnard
- Jose Garcia, 47, Thousand Oaks
- Jason Lightfoot, 51, Newbury Park
- Israel Perez, 51, Oxnard
All suspects were detained as part of the sting and, according to deputies, were also provided with educational material outlining how participating in commercial sex markets directly contributes to human trafficking-related crimes.
Operation Backed by Multiple Law Enforcement Units
The sting was part of a major collaborative initiative involving multiple Southern California law enforcement agencies, including:
- Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force
- Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force
- Ventura Police Department
- Ventura County Sheriff’s Special Crimes Unit
- Thousand Oaks Police Department Special Enforcement Unit
- Thousand Oaks Police Department Direct Enforcement Unit
Officials emphasized that multi-agency coordination is essential, given the complexity and hidden nature of both labor and sex trafficking operations.
Ventura County Continues Push Against Human Trafficking
In their public statement, the sheriff’s department reiterated the broad mission of the VCHTTF, explaining –
“The VCHTTF investigates both labor and sex trafficking occurring within Ventura County. The task force hopes to raise awareness about human trafficking within the community. Detectives believe proactive enforcement efforts are crucial in the fight against human trafficking.”
Authorities also stressed the importance of public awareness and encouraged community members to stay vigilant for signs of trafficking.
Resources for Victims and Community Members
Law enforcement officials urged anyone who believes they are a victim — or knows someone who may be involved in a trafficking situation — to seek help immediately. Individuals can contact 211 or reach out to their local law enforcement agency to be connected with support services.
The community is divided on the best ways to reduce trafficking and the demand behind it.
Share your thoughts below — should California increase these undercover operations, or focus more on rehabilitation and education?
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