San Diego County Operation Rescues 19 Victims from Sex Trafficking

Supportive gathering symbolizing rescue from human trafficking in San Diego

San Diego, December 24, 2025

An anti-sex trafficking operation in San Diego County, called ‘Operation Home for the Holidays,’ led to the rescue of 19 individuals and the arrest of 10 suspects. Conducted over three days by undercover officers, the operation targeted potential traffickers and victims. The initiative highlights ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in the region through law enforcement collaboration and community support.

San Diego County Operation Rescues 19 Victims, Leads to 10 Arrests in Sex Trafficking Sting

San Diego, CA – A recent anti-sex trafficking operation in San Diego County resulted in the rescue of 19 individuals and the arrest of 10 suspects. The operation, named “Operation Home for the Holidays,” was conducted over a three-day period and involved undercover officers posing as sex buyers to identify potential traffickers and victims.

Details of the Operation

Law enforcement agencies from San Diego, Chula Vista, and National City came together to conduct the sting, aimed at addressing the critical issue of sex trafficking in the region. The operation was marked by the following outcomes:

  • 10 arrests: Four men were charged with serious offenses, including pimping, pandering, and violating a protective order. If convicted, they face prison sentences ranging from six to 20 years. Six other individuals received misdemeanor citations for attempting to purchase sex.
  • 19 victims rescued: These individuals were offered support services to assist them in escaping the trauma of exploitation and human trafficking.

Background on the Operation

Operation Home for the Holidays is an annual initiative by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, which combines local, state, and federal law enforcement efforts to combat human trafficking through targeted enforcement and survivor support. This operation builds on previous successful efforts throughout the year, including one during Comic-Con weekend that resulted in 13 arrests and the recovery of 10 potential trafficking victims.

Ongoing Efforts and Community Involvement

Authorities continue to stress the importance of community involvement in the fight against human trafficking. Individuals who suspect they may be witnessing trafficking activities or need assistance are encouraged to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Local organizations such as the San Diego Regional Human Trafficking and CSEC Advisory Council provide additional resources and support to address the issue and aid survivors effectively.

Key Features of the Operation

Feature Details
Operation Name Operation Home for the Holidays
Duration Three days
Locations Involved San Diego, Chula Vista, National City
Number of Arrests 10
Number of Victims Rescued 19
Charges Faced by Suspects Pimping, pandering, violation of protective order, attempted purchase of sex
Potential Prison Sentences for Convicted Suspects 6 to 20 years
Support Services Offered to Victims Assistance in escaping and healing from exploitation and human trafficking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Operation Home for the Holidays?

Operation Home for the Holidays is an annual initiative conducted by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, involving multiple law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking through targeted enforcement and support for survivors.

How many individuals were rescued during the operation?

The operation resulted in the rescue of 19 individuals who were offered support services to assist them in escaping and healing from exploitation and human trafficking.

What charges were the suspects facing?

Four men were charged with serious offenses, including pimping, pandering, and violating a protective order. If convicted, they face prison sentences ranging from six to 20 years. Six other individuals received misdemeanor citations for attempting to purchase sex.

How can individuals report suspected human trafficking activities?

Individuals who suspect trafficking activities or need assistance are encouraged to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Additionally, resources and support services are available through organizations like the San Diego Regional Human Trafficking and CSEC Advisory Council.


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STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER

The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.

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