6 Arrested In Long Beach During Sex Work And Human Trafficking Operation

LONG BEACH, CA — An enforcement operation focused on stopping illegal commercial sex work and human trafficking in the city has resulted in several arrests.

Throughout March, Long Beach Police North Division patrol officers partnered with the LBPD's High Crime Focus Team (HCFT) and Societal Crimes Section to conduct enforcement operations along the Long Beach Boulevard corridor, focusing on ongoing community concerns and illegal activity related to commercial sex work and human trafficking.

As a result of the operations, six individuals were arrested for solicitation-related offenses, and three vehicles were towed. Five of the arrestees are:

• Briana Hoyem, a 28-year-old Long Beach resident, arrested March 25 and March 31.
• David Lozano, a 39-year-old Los Angeles resident, arrested March 25.
• Azora Mack, a 22-year-old Fresno resident, arrested March 25.
• Eduardo Cortez, 27, of Long Beach, arrested March 25.
• Alex Palma, 38, of Long Beach, arrested March 31.

Additionally, on March 21 at about 12:28 a.m., officers responded to the 6400 block of Long Beach Boulevard regarding a robbery.

During the investigation, officers learned that a male adult suspect pointed a gun at a commercial sex worker and attempted to rob her. Officers later located the suspect, recovered the firearm, and took him into custody.

He was identified as Blazie Douglas, a 34-year-old resident of Long Beach, who was booked for robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, and soliciting prostitution, and an existing warrant. He is currently being held without bail, police said April 7.

"Efforts like these reflect our continued commitment to addressing illegal activity while prioritizing the safety and dignity of those impacted by exploitation,” Police Chief Wally Hebeish said. “Through combining proactive enforcement with a victim-centered approach, our officers are working to hold offenders accountable and connect vulnerable individuals with resources that can help them move toward safer circumstances.”

Police have advised witnesses to call 9-1-1 in case of emergency, or call (562) 435-6711 for non-emergency police dispatch.

Anonymous tips may be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 Tips" app to your smartphone (available at the Apple app store or Google Play), or by visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.