LAKE ELSINORE, CA — Seven people were arrested last week during a "John" prostitution sting conducted by the Lake Elsinore Sheriff's Station.
The operation was conducted Thursday, Oct. 22, "in an effort to reduce the demand for sex trafficking in the city of Lake Elsinore," according to the station.
The arrestees ranged in age from 20 to 43, with cities of residence that included Corona, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Perris and Wildomar.
Additionally, a "potential victim" was identified and provided with services and resources, according to the sheriff's station.
Law enforcement prostitution stings usually involve police placing decoy posts on popular classified websites commonly used for the solicitation of prostitution.
When potential customers respond to the ads, an agreement for paid sex is brokered by an undercover officer. The buyers are then arrested when they arrive at an agreed-upon rendezvous spot.
"Prostitution is not a victimless crime," the sheriff's station reported.
The agency said it intends "to disrupt and dismantle sex trafficking rings operating within its jurisdiction of Riverside County and will aggressively identify, pursue, and apprehend those who seek to exploit vulnerable victims."
The station also promised to "proactively work to reduce future demand for sex trafficking by identifying and arresting sex buyers."
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