VISALIA, CA — A joint law enforcement operation focused on human trafficking in the Visalia area led to the arrest of five men and the rescue of four women this past weekend.
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office and the Porterville Police Department conducted the two-day operation on Friday and Saturday. Officials said the goal was to fight human trafficking and other crimes in the county.
During the operation, investigators found and helped four adult women who were victims of human trafficking. Authorities moved the women to safety and provided them with resources and support.
Police arrested five local men on charges of soliciting prostitution. According to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, those taken into custody include:
- A 41-year-old from Tulare
- A 53-year-old from Orange Cove
- Two 43-year-olds from Visalia
- A 56-year-old from Reedley
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to helping victims and ending human trafficking in the area.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about human trafficking to contact local law enforcement. Tips can be reported through the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office or the National Human Trafficking Hotline. You can also submit anonymous tips through the Tip Now program.
