Five Arrested in Visalia Human Trafficking Enforcement Operation
VISALIA, CA — Detectives from the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office and the Porterville Police Department conducted a two-day human sex trafficking operation in the Visalia area on January 30 and January 31, 2026. The detail was designed to identify individuals soliciting women for sexual favors through escort services and to provide assistance to potential victims of human trafficking.
During the course of the operation, law enforcement officials arrested five men on charges related to the solicitation of prostitution.
Those taken into custody include:
41-year-old Edward Pena of Tulare,
53-year-old Fernando Martinez of Orange Cove
43-year-old Roy Pearce of Visalia
43-year-old Arturo Zaragoza of Visalia
56-year-old David Abundiz of Reedley
All five individuals were placed behind bars following the detail.
In addition to the arrests, Tulare County Human Trafficking Detectives reported the rescue of four adult females identified as victims of human trafficking. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office stated that these operations are part of an ongoing effort to prevent human trafficking and ensure the safety and security of the residents of Tulare County. The department indicated that similar operations will continue in the future.
Authorities have provided several resources for individuals who may have information or who are victims of human trafficking. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (559) 733-6218, and anonymous tips can be submitted via email or phone through the Tip Now service. Additionally, the National Human Trafficking Hotline remains available 24 hours a day for those seeking assistance.
