Murrieta Police and RCAHT Conduct Operation Targeting Prostitution and Human Trafficking
MURRIETA, CA — Officers with the Murrieta Police Department, in coordination with the Riverside County Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (RCAHT), conducted an enforcement operation on January 28, 2025, aimed at addressing prostitution-related crimes and human trafficking. The operation sought to identify and assist victims while also arresting individuals involved in illegal activities.
During the operation, one female was identified as a human trafficking victim and accepted outreach and diversion services. Additionally, authorities arrested nine men for solicitation of prostitution and one man for pimping.
Those arrested for solicitation of prostitution included individuals from Murrieta, Riverside, Menifee, Fullerton, Winchester, Temecula, Norco, and San Bernardino. Among them, 29-year-old Matthew Deshawn Edmonston was taken into custody on charges of pimping.
Officials emphasized that prostitution is not a victimless crime, as human trafficking remains one of the largest criminal enterprises worldwide. The RCAHT Task Force continues its efforts to disrupt trafficking networks and provide assistance to victims, aiming to reduce the demand for such crimes.
Authorities urge anyone with information or questions regarding this operation to contact Sergeant Jay Elliott or Corporal Jason Jones at the Murrieta Police Department.
