A Las Vegas man has received a decade-long prison sentence for his role in a human trafficking operation that coerced three women into prostitution, forcibly transporting them from Las Vegas to San Diego. David Warren, 37, must now pay the price for his heinous actions, which were brought to light after a victim's courageous appeal for help from a San Pedro lifeguard.
The fateful encounter on September 12, 2023, at Mission Beach transformed the life of one individual—and potentially many more. The victim, who had been trafficked from Las Vegas, managed to confide in the lifeguard, leading to immediate action by the San Diego Police and the swift apprehension of Warren. Two other women were in a hotel soon after, underlining the rescue's urgency and severity.
In the wake of this rescue, U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath praised the lifeguard's quick response. McGrath said, "Profiteers exploit victims of human trafficking anywhere they think they can take advantage, even on the beach in daylight," as per the Department of Justice. McGrath lauded the victim's bravery for reaching out and credited this action with the subsequent rescue of the others involved.
While acknowledging the joint efforts in these types of cases, California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the collaboration's necessity, stating, "We must work together across every level of government and society to help bring human trafficking to an end. No one agency can do it all alone." According to the Department of Justice, Bonta is committed to maintaining the legal pressure on human traffickers across San Diego County.
As documented by investigators, Warren preyed upon the vulnerability of his victims, including a homeless woman and individuals susceptible to substance abuse. Through means of violence, threats, and emotional manipulation, he orchestrated this now-shuttered operation. Marine Safety Captain Maureen Hodges remarked on the unusual nature of the case for their lifeguard team but affirmed their readiness to respond to any call for assistance.
Assisting agencies in successfully closing this case include Homeland Security Investigations, the San Diego Police Department, and the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, supported by the City of San Diego's Fire-Rescue Department, Lifeguard Services Division.
Warren faced charges of Transportation for Purpose of Prostitution and Coercion and Enticement, risking up to thirty years in prison and paying a $500,000 cumulate fine. Ultimately, the court handed down a 10-year sentence. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Derek Ko and Lyndzie M. Carter.
For those who may be facing or suspect someone else is under the threat of violence or extortion, the National Human Trafficking Resource Center provides a toll-free 24/7 hotline, reachable at (888) 373-7888 or by texting BeFree (233733).
