Monterey Area CHP Makes Major Human Trafficking Arrest
MONTEREY COUNTY, CA — “In February 2025, the crime of premeditated attempted murder, human trafficking, assault with a firearm, assault likely to cause great bodily injury, threats to commit crime resulting in death, pimping, pandering, and conspiracy to commit crime occurred on US-101 in Monterey County. The ensuing comprehensive investigation led to several different counties, ultimately resulting in the arrest of a 31-year-old suspect in Merced County.
Human trafficking is a serious crime occurring statewide. Suspects often commit crimes in several counties and states. Investigating Human trafficking involves numerous law enforcement agencies working together.
This case was investigated by the California Highway Patrol, Monterey Area; and the California Highway Patrol, Coastal Division Investigative Services Unit (ISU). California Highway Patrol Investigators were assisted by the following law enforcement entities: Salinas Police Department Violence Suppression Task Force; Merced Police Gang Violence Suppression Unit (GVSU); California Highway Patrol, Central Division ISU; California Highway Patrol, Delta Regional Auto Theft Team (Delta Ratt); California Highway Patrol, Ventura County Auto Theft Task Force (VenCATT); Tracy Police Department Special Investigations Unit (SIU); Tracy Police Department Special Enforcement Team (SET); Santa Cruz County Sheriff Department; California Department of Justice Bureau of Investigation Human Trafficking and Sexual Predator Apprehension Team; and the Monterey County District Attorney’s office.
The 31- year old suspect is facing eight Felony charges, which include:
PC664-187(a)-Attempted Murder
PC236.1(b)-Human Trafficking-To Commit Another Crime
PC245(a)(2)-F-Assault with Firearm On Person
PC245(a)(4)-F-Assault: Likely GBI not firearm
PC422(a)-F Threats to Commit Crime Resulting In Death
PC266h(a)-Pimping
PC266i(a)(1)-Pandering
PC182(a)(1)-F-Conspiracy: Commit Crime
The 31- year old suspect is currently in the Monterey County jail without bail and is due back in court on May 22, 2025, for a preliminary hearing.
• If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, always call 9-1-1.
• If you have information about a trafficking situation, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free (24/7) by calling 888-373-7888, texting 233733, or using the online chat feature at humantraffickinghotline.org/chat.
The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.”
