On October 6^th, San Rafael Police Officers with the Special Operations Unit conducted an undercover operation focusing on victims of Human Trafficking.  In the afternoon, officers located an advertisement on an internet escort website that had some indications of juveniles being involved.  A “date” was set up, and the officer was given an address of an apartment complex near downtown San Rafael. 

When officers arrived at the residence, a 55-year-old Asian female answered the door.  Through the investigation officers confirmed the apartment was used for the purposes of prostitution.  The female did not understand or read any English and had no family in the country.  It was discovered that the female was not allowed to keep any of the money she earned for the prostitution acts and was moved to different locations on a weekly basis.

The apartment was rented to Walter Horat, a 49-year-old male from San Rafael, who was also present.  He admitted to allowing the female to work at his apartment for prostitution and helped her buy supplies that aided in acts of prostitution.  Officers found evidence that other females possibly work at the same address but there was no indication that any of them were juveniles.  Officers are investigating leads as to others involved in this trafficking operation.

Community Violence Solutions was called and assisted the victim with services and shelter. Horat was arrested for 315 PC, keeping a house of prostitution and 653.23 PC, aiding in prostitution and booked into Marin County Jail.

Please contact SRPD at 415-485-3000 if you have any information about this case.  If you know someone who is or may be a victim, please contact your local law enforcement agency.  To learn more, visit www.mcceht.org.