FLORIDA — Ten people are in custody following a multi-agency investigation targeting illegal brothels in Lee County, according to the State Attorney’s Office.
State Attorney Amira Fox announced the arrests during a news conference Friday, saying the operation, dubbed “Operation Red Light,” focused on brothels operating in Fort Myers and Cape Coral. The investigation lasted approximately two years and began after law enforcement received tips from the community.
Authorities said eight search warrants were executed at four homes and four businesses as part of the operation. Investigators reported that the brothels were concealed within ordinary locations, lacked signage and, in at least one case, were located just feet from a children’s daycare.
Officials said the arrests were made over a 36-hour period. Those taken into custody are facing charges that include prostitution, racketeering and money laundering.
According to the State Attorney’s Office, two of the individuals arrested are believed to be in the country illegally and may face deportation.
Multiple agencies participated in the investigation, including the INTERCEPT Task Force, Fort Myers Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities said the task force focuses on combating human trafficking and child exploitation.
The investigation remains ongoing.
