STARKE, Fla. – Police in Starke say they have arrested five people in a prostitution and vice operation that took place in July.
The operation, which was initiated by use of the Internet by police, resulted in five arrests during two separate meeting dates.
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Advertisements for "escort" or "adult" services were posted July 10 on a website. On the same date, police said several suspects began contacting the SCU Undercover and making inquiries as to meeting for services.
Police said communication was established through phone calls, text messages and emails. During the conversations, eight appointments were initially made to meet the UC at a local hotel or motel establishment.
On July 12 between 7 p.m. and 12:15 a.m., authorities said three "appointments" resulted in three suspects being arrested for purchasing prostitution services.
Police said 33-year-old Collins Idoko, 47-year-old Luther Davis and 47-year-old Kelly Malone were arrested and charged with second-degree misdemeanor for first offense.
On July 27 between 5 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., two "appointments" resulted in three suspects being arrested for purchasing prostitution services, according to police.
Officials said 30-year-old Sujai Shriram and 29-year-old Demetrice Hankerson were arrested and charged with second-degree misdemeanor for first offense.
"There have been several news broadcasts about prostitution as well as predator acts solicited through the Internet. This operation shows that our Home Town of Starke, Florida isn't immune from the reach of the web or the activities initiated on the web," said Chief Jeff Johnson. "I hope the readers or viewers will note the addresses of these violators. If they will travel those distances to participate in acts of prostitution, it leaves one to wonder what other dangerous intentions will travel into our community at the push of a button or click of a mouse."
"Parents please monitor the social media activities of your children and have direct conversations with them about not only the dangers out on the web, but your true concerns for their safety in this ever evolving world of Social Media," added Johnson.