California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the arrests and filing of felony charges against four individuals accused of operating residential brothels in Sacramento County. The charges include money laundering, conspiracy, and tax evasion. Six survivors were offered resources and services during the operation.
The investigation was led by special agents from the California Department of Justice's Human Trafficking and Sexual Predator Apprehension Team and White-Collar Investigation Team, with support from the newly formed Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force. Other assisting agencies included the Bureau of Gambling Control, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Sacramento County Code Enforcement, California Franchise Tax Board, and Employment Development Department through the TRUE Task Force.
Attorney General Bonta stated: “Every single day, our dedicated prosecutors and special agents strive to protect the most vulnerable Californians from exploitation. This case is an example of the California Department of Justice’s continued dedication to dismantling these criminal networks and standing with survivors on their path to recovery and justice.” He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.
HSI San Francisco Special Agent in Charge Tatum King added: “By working closely with our law enforcement partners, we have taken down a dangerous operation that exploited individuals to simply line their pockets." King emphasized HSI's commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
The suspects allegedly ran two residential brothels from April 2022 until February 13, 2025. They are accused of recruiting women for commercial sex work at these locations and promoting prostitution services online while collecting payments from clients.
The DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section will handle prosecution. Charges include conspiracy, pimping, pandering, money laundering, tax evasion, mortgage fraud, and criminal profiteering. Arraignment is scheduled for February 18 before Sacramento County Superior Court.
It should be noted that criminal charges are allegations until proven guilty in court.
A copy of the complaint can be found here.