A man was sentenced to three years in prison Thursday in a pimping case that highlights law enforcement’s efforts to combat human trafficking, the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office said.
Sheriff’s Office detectives and the DA’s Office conducted an undercover operation in April, officials said.
Kalen Bradford, 39, of Merced County was arrested on April 10 at a local hotel, “where his victim had arranged to meet with an undercover detective posing as a buyer,” according to the District Attorney’s Office.
“The investigation revealed that Bradford exploited and profited from the victim and received proceeds of her sexual exploitation.”
Bradford pleaded guilty in June to felony pimping. On Thursday, he was sentenced to three years in prison by Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge Pauline Maxwell.
He was being held in county jail custody on $35,000 bail as of Friday, according to sheriff’s custody records.
Human trafficking crimes “rob individuals of their freedom and dignity. We will continue to pursue traffickers aggressively, protect victims and work with our community to end this exploitation,” District Attorney John Savrnoch said in a statement.
His office has a team that works with other law enforcement agencies to identify potential traffickers and rescue victims.
“If you are a victim, you are not alone. Help is available, and there is a way out,” said Senior Deputy District Attorney Megan Chanda, the prosecutor on this case. “We urge anyone with information to come forward — your call could save a life.”
If you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking, call 9-1-1 in an emergency or the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 805.683.2724.
The Victim Witness Assistance Program at the District Attorney’s Office provides crisis support, safety planning, counseling referrals and assistance navigating the legal process.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached at 1.888.373.7888, where trained advocates are available 24/7 to connect victims with safety and services, the District Attorney’s Office said.