December 19, 2023 - Los Angeles - Los Angeles Police Department officials report the Department’s (LAPD) Southeast Area Vice Unit is announcing the arrest of six suspects believed to be involved in prostitution related crimes that occurred in South Los Angeles.

During the week of December 10, 2023, through December 16, 2023, throughout various hours, vice officers conducted undercover surveillance operations along the Figueroa Corridor in Southeast Area targeting lewd conduct, prostitution, and human trafficking activities. This is an ongoing effort to prevent the trafficking of women and minors along the busy corridor.

During the operations, undercover officers observed numerous individuals approaching and soliciting women for sexual services. Officers further observed these exchanges and services occurring in public view and in nearby residential neighborhoods where families and children were present. While in the commission of these crimes, uniformed Southeast officers took enforcement action.

The following adults were arrested and cited for California Penal Code, Sections 647(b)(1) Engaging in an Act of Prostitution, 647(b)(2) Solicitation for Purposes of Prostitution, and 266(i) Pandering. All are Los Angeles residents:

Suspect-1: Tulio Sanchez, 68 years of age, Release from Custody Citation #J97621

Suspect-2: Jerome Yates, 23 years of age, Booking #6725800

Suspect-3: Dominique McFarland, 35 years of age, Release from Custody Citation #J97622

Suspect-4: Jaime Olano-Gonzalez, 40 years of age, Release from Custody Citation #J94406

Suspect-5: Danya Johnson, 32 years of age, Booking #6727629

Suspect-6: Sophia Bermen, 21 years of age, Release from Custody Citation #J97641

In addition to the arrests, vice officers identified a minor who was a victim of human trafficking. The victim was rescued, reunited with family, and provided wraparound services. The investigation into the victim’s exploiters is still ongoing.

Anyone with information about these crimes or these types of incidents is asked to call the Southeast Area Vice Detail at (213) 972-1017. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.
Source: Los Angeles Police Department