February 3, 2026 – Tulare County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on January 30, 2026, and January 31, 2026, TCSO Detectives, along with Porterville Police Department Detectives, conducted a human sex trafficking detail in the Visalia area.

The objective of the detail was to identify people who solicit women for sexual favors in exchange for money through escort services, and to also contact subjects who are potential victims of human trafficking and offer services and help to them.

The following men were arrested for soliciting prostitution:

Edward Pena 41, Tulare

Fernando Martinez 53, Orange Cove

Roy Pearce 43, Visalia

Arturo Zaragoza 43, Visalia

David Abundiz 56, Reedley

Tulare County Human Trafficking Detectives also rescued four adult females who were victims of human trafficking.

The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office is actively involved in the prevention of human trafficking and believes no human should be bought or sold. Detectives will continue to conduct these types of operations in the future for the safety and security of the people of Tulare County.

If you, or someone you know, is a victim of Human Trafficking, please contact the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 733-6218, or Tip Now at tcso@tipnow.com or (559) 725-4194 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can also contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1(888) 373-7888.

Source & photos: Tulare County Sheriff’s Office