Rohnert Park Man Acted As Pimp, Had Sex With Minors, Police Say

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — Santa Rosa police arrested a 20-year-old Rohnert Park man this week for alleged pimping, having sex with at least one minor, and oral copulation with a person younger than 18. Laiken James was taken into custody Tuesday with the assistance of the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety, officials with the Santa Rosa Police Department stated in a news release.

The investigation of James began in early November when a Santa Rosa police detective who investigates human trafficking saw information on a website known for the posting of advertisements related to commercial sex acts, police said in the release.

"In this particular case, he believed the woman pictured in the advertisement might be a minor," police said. "As the case progressed, a male by the name of Laiken James was identified as being associated with the woman. Ultimately the detective found out the woman was not a minor; however, James was associated with her by acting as her pimp."

The detective also found evidence revealing that James, since turning 18 years old two years ago and continuing until now, allegedly had "numerous sexual relationships with young girls ranging in age from 14-17 years old."

Santa Rosa police conducted surveillance on James and with the assistance of Rohnert Park DPS, reportedly placed him under arrest at about 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in Rohnert Park without incident.

James was booked into Sonoma County jail and his bail was set at $55,000, police said.

Friday, jail records indicated James has since been released from custody.

Santa Rosa police were continuing their investigation and asked anyone with pertinent investigation to call the department's Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault tip line: 707-543-4040.

Booking photo via Santa Rosa Police Department