11 Arrested In Prostitution Sting In Pleasanton

PLEASANTON, CA — Eleven men were arrested on suspicion of prostitution-related offenses this week in Pleasanton following an undercover sting operation, police officials said. Citizen complaints prompted the undercover operation at a Pleasanton hotel, according to police.

“Undercover officers used a fictitious profile to create an online advertisement designed to attract commercial sex purchasers seeking prostitution services,” police said in a statement. “During the eight-hour operation, over 40 phone numbers contacted undercover officers in response to the advertisement.”

Ten of the men agreed to pay money for a sexual act and traveled to the hotel where undercover officers were waiting, police said.

“One male suspect arrived believing the undercover officer was a 15-year-old girl,” police said.

Another suspect allegedly tried to take over as the officer’s pimp, according to police.

“He made an agreement to offer protection and other services in exchange for a portion of the proceeds,” police asaid.

The men were arrested on a variety of charges, including solicitation of prostitution, resisting arrest, pandering and meeting with a minor with the intention of engaging in lewd or lascivious behavior. The suspects were booked into the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin. Their names were not released.

Livermore and Hayward police assisted in the operation.

“Prostitution often involves human trafficking, drug use and violent crimes such as robbery and assault,” police said. “The Pleasanton Police Department is committed to proactively addressing prostitution activity in our community.”

Anyone with information regarding suspected prostitution activity is encouraged to call the Pleasanton Police Department at (925) 931-5100.

Photo courtesy PPD