On Thursday, December 5, 2019, investigators from the San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force, along with officers from the Redlands Police Department and Redlands Code Enforcement, served two search warrants related to ongoing prostitution at two massage parlors in the City of Redlands. Over the past several months, complaints regarding prostitution occurring at the massage parlors were received by the Redlands Police Department. Redlands Police officers brought the concerns to the attention of the Human Trafficking Task Force and requested assistance in addressing the complaints. Investigators conducted surveillance and undercover operations and discovered evidence of ongoing prostitution and possible human trafficking occurring at both locations.
Search warrants were served at both businesses and code enforcement officers were requested due to building and health concerns. The inspections done by code enforcement officers, resulted in both locations being "Red Tagged" and immediately closed. Both businesses will remain closed until the violations cited by code enforcement have been fully addressed. Because of the investigations, four suspects were identified and charged with solicitation for prostitution. This investigation is ongoing.
The San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force is made up of investigators from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office, Ontario Police Department, Redlands Police Department, California State Parole, Office of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Community involvement plays an integral part in the fight against Human Trafficking, and law enforcement appreciates and encourages the assistance and information provided by the public. Anyone wishing to report activities or concerns related to Human Trafficking to the San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force, can do so directly by calling (909) 387-8400 or by Email at humantrafficking@sbcsd.org. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 1-888-78-CRIME or you may leave information on the WE-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.