In an effort to crack down on prostitution in Howard County, police set up a sting and arrested seven men on Monday.
As part of the operation, detectives with the Howard County police posted fakes ads on websites that are known for prostitution. Men who called the number spoke with an undercover woman officer who told them to meet at a location upon the caller's request.
When the men would arrive for sex acts, they were arrested and charged with solicitation of prostitution and disorderly conduct.
The following men were arrested:
- Michael Hightower, 49, of Aberdeen
- Lonnell Brooks, 48, of Westminster
- Matthew Simmons, 34, of Baltimore
- Andre Sherwood, 43, of Annapolis
- Santos Miranda Garcia, 43, of Silver Spring
- Habib Konate, 35, of Laurel
- Thomas Enoff, 44, of Westminster
This operation is part of Howard County’s ongoing effort to combat prostitution, human trafficking and related offenses and aids in making the county an unappealing place for traffickers and johns.
If you are a victim, HCPD can offer housing, treatment and other help. If you suspect human trafficking, or if you or someone you know is a victim, call 911 or 410-313-3200 to speak privately to a detective. You can also call a tip line at 410-290-3784 or email hcpdcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.
