Suspected sex trafficking operation run out of medical warehouse busted in Chino

CHINO, Calif. (KABC) -- A suspected ringleader was arrested in what authorities say was a sex trafficking operation run out of a medical warehouse in Chino.

On Wednesday, San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force members surveyed a medical warehouse in the 12500 block of 10th Street. The warehouse is right across the street from the Chino Valley Medical Center and around the corner from the police department.

Investigators found multiple victims posted on backpage.com and the location was advertised for prostitution.

Task force members saw a high number of men going in and out of the building. Upon further investigation, members believed the victims were being trafficked for sex.

Authorities obtained a search warrant, served it and rescued two victims inside the building. Two people authorities believed were going to pay for sex were also detained but later released pending a further investigation.

A 39-year-old Los Angeles resident, identified as Luis Lopez, was also found in the building and appeared to be acting as a pimp. Authorities determined he was the primary suspect in trafficking victims.

Lopez was arrested and booked on suspicion of felony pimping and pandering at the West Valley Detention Center in lieu of $100,000 bail.

The investigation was ongoing.

Authorities believe there are other unidentified victims connected to the case and urge anyone with more information to contact the task force at (909) 387-8400. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call the We-Tip Hotline at (888) 78-CRIME.