San Diego City Wire

David Warren of Las Vegas was sentenced in federal court to 10 years in prison for coercing three women to engage in prostitution and transporting them from Las Vegas to San Diego.

Authorities discovered the women after one victim approached a San Diego lifeguard at Mission Beach on September 12, 2023, seeking help. The victim reported being trafficked from Las Vegas and requested assistance. The lifeguard notified the San Diego Police Department, leading to the quick recovery of the other two victims by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force at a local hotel and Warren's subsequent arrest.

According to his plea agreement, Warren exploited the victims through violence, threats of violence, and emotional abuse. One of the victims was homeless and vulnerable to substance abuse. In San Diego, Warren took them to various beaches to solicit customers.

“Profiteers exploit victims of human trafficking anywhere they think they can take advantage, even on the beach in daylight,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “This brave woman saved herself and others by trusting a San Diego lifeguard who immediately jumped into action.”

“The DOJ-led San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force is laser-focused on holding human traffickers accountable in San Diego County,” stated California Attorney General Rob Bonta. “We must work together across every level of government and society to help bring human trafficking to an end. No one agency can do it all alone.”

“This circumstance was not the typical rescue our lifeguards perform,” said Marine Safety Captain Maureen Hodges. “However, we were glad to be of service and keep this victim safe while notifying San Diego Police that she needed assistance.”

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl commented, “The suspect in this case used violence and manipulation to control his victims. Thankfully, due to the quick action of the SDPD and SDHTTF, Warren was arrested and all three victims in the case were rescued.”

Individuals living or working under threat of violence or extortion are encouraged to call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center toll-free hotline at (888) 373-7888 or text BeFree or 233733.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Derek Ko and Lyndzie M. Carter.

Defendant: David Warren

Case Number: 23-cr-2102-JLS

Age: 37

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Summary of Charges:

- Transportation for Purpose of Prostitution – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2421(a)

Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison and $250,000 fine

- Coercion and Enticement – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2422(a)

Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine

Investigating Agencies:

- Homeland Security Investigations

- San Diego Police Department

- San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force

- City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Lifeguard Services Division