Eight Arrested in Burlington Police Department Prostitution Sweep

For Immediate Release

Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-791-7627

Eight Arrested in Burlington Police Department Prostitution Sweep

BURLINGTON — Police Chief Michael R. Kent reports that the Burlington Police Department arrested seven men and one women during a prostitution sweep on Friday evening.

The Burlington police Detective Unit conducted a reverse sting to target “johns” on Friday, in an effort to drive prostitution away from Burlington. A female police officer posted ads on a website known for hosting classified ads offering sex for a fee.

“In conducting these operations, the Burlington Police Department is seeking to send a loud, clear message to those who want to engage in prostitution and would bring women here for the same purpose: Do not bring your business to Burlington,” Chief Kent said. “There is no room for this kind of elicit activity in our community.”

While the sting operation was intended to target customers, in the course of monitoring the sting advertisement, Burlington detectives observed a female advertising sex from another Burlington Hotel. Detectives contacted her, made an appointment, and arrested her after an agreement was made to purchase sex.

Additionally, seven men attempted to purchase sex from the undercover female officer, and they were arrested. The eight suspects were charged with Sexual Conduct for a Fee.

“Prostitution is anything but a so-called victimless crime,” said Burlington Police Detective Sergeant Timothy McDonough, who led the sting. “Human trafficking is a serious issue that involves the exploitation of women and children, and their tormentors use these same classified ads websites to do business. By targeting these methods, we want both parties to think twice before coming to Burlington.”

The eight individuals arrested will be arraigned tomorrow in Woburn District Court.

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