Crime & Safety

Sarasota Prostitution Sting Nets 5 Arrests

Men from Sarasota, Bradenton and Riverview were arrested during a Wednesday night prostitution sting on North Tamiami Trail.

SARASOTA, FL — The Sarasota Police Department has announced the arrest of five men following a one-night crackdown on prostitution within the city limits.

According to the agency, the March 29 operation was conducted by members of the street crimes unit in the 4700 block of North Tamiami Trail. The operation is part of an ongoing effort meant to “stop prostitution” in the area.

Those arrested were:

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Joseph Harrell, 58, of Bradenton

  • Charges: Solicitation of prostitution, possession of cocaine, possession of marijauan. Harrell’s vehicle was also seized under city code.

Marvin Campbell, 64, Sarasota

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  • Charges; Solicitation of prostitution

Yaicel Montalvan-Poveda, 28, of Sarasota

  • Charges: Solicitation of prostitution

Juan Avila-Bravo, 36, Riverview

  • Charges: Solicitation of prostitution and warrant for failure to appear in court on a driving on a suspended license charge

Randy Crawford, 25, Bradenton

  • Charges: Solicitation of prostitution

Main image via Shutterstock/Booking photos of Harrell, Campbell, Montalvan-Poveda, Avila-Bravo and Crawford courtesy of the Sarasota Police Department

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