OPP, Ala. (WDNews) — A months-long investigation into a suspected prostitution and sex trafficking ring centered around the Opp Motor Lodge has resulted in multiple arrests, according to the Covington County Sheriff’s Office.
The Covington County Sheriff’s Office and the Opp Police Department have been working together for several months, gathering evidence, tracking leads, and coordinating with other agencies. Officials said the joint investigation led to the arrests made earlier this week.
On November 4, two individuals were arrested as part of the ongoing operation.
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Dixitkumar Rasikbhai Patel was arrested and charged with promoting prostitution/interstate transport of a female for prostitution and two counts of soliciting prostitution. His bond was set at $16,000.
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Ketan Na Talati was arrested and charged with promoting prostitution/interstate transport of a female for prostitution and six counts of soliciting prostitution. His bond was set at $26,000.
Authorities said the investigation remains active and additional arrests are expected.
Sheriff Blake Turman issued the following statement:
“It is hard to grasp that this has happened in our community. In today’s world, which is so often driven by sin and instant gratification, I would have never expected something like this to occur here. This does not represent the core values and moral compass of Covington County. I expect this entire motel to be shut down immediately.
America is the great melting pot of the world, and I am proud of this. We accept everyone; we only ask that our laws be observed and that we show each other mutual respect. God created all of us equal, but we are not all the same. America, being the melting pot, ensures that we remain respectful of one another, no matter our race, religion, creed, or culture.
These victims are someone’s children. As a parent, it disgusts me and angers me that these individuals were taken advantage of when they were at their lowest point. These acts of gratification are devious and show a lack of common decency and respect for people.
I am grateful for the tenacity of our officers and the ability to work closely with other departments, which ultimately brought this case to a close. These crimes will not be tolerated in any form in Covington County.
This could have happened anywhere, and I am not so naive as to think it won’t happen again. The time spent on this case was necessary to ensure that every stone was turned and that we gathered the evidence needed to make this sting hit hard.
I encourage anyone who has knowledge of prostitution or sex trafficking to step forward. We will help you.”
Law enforcement officials urge anyone with information about prostitution or sex trafficking in Covington County to contact the Covington County Sheriff’s Office or the Opp Police Department.
