San Bruno Police Department

HUMAN TRAFFICKING INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST

On Thursday, October 1, 2026, members of the San Bruno Police Department’s Investigative Services Section (ISS), Special Response Unit (SRU), and Patrol Division executed search warrants at locations on the 500 block of E San Bruno Ave in San Bruno and 100 block of Gardiner Ave in South San Francisco as part of an ongoing human trafficking and prostitution investigation.

This operation was the culmination of several years of investigative work by members of our Investigative Services Section. Throughout the investigation, our investigators worked diligently to develop leads, interview witnesses, gather evidence, and ultimately establish the probable cause necessary to obtain the search warrants.

During the operation, officers contacted two victims/survivors and connected them with resources and support services.

A 27-year-old South San Francisco resident was also detained and later arrested after officers developed probable cause for charges related to pandering.

Human trafficking can happen anywhere — including within our own communities. These investigations are about more than making arrests. They are about identifying victims, connecting them with help, disrupting criminal activity, and protecting the neighborhoods we serve.

The San Bruno Police Department would like to thank the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office, South San Francisco Police Department, San Mateo County Narcotics Task Force, Gang Investigations Unit, and Vehicle Theft Task Force for their assistance in the execution of these search warrants.

The San Bruno Police Department remains committed to identifying and addressing human trafficking and sex trafficking in our city. We also need the community’s help. If you see something suspicious or have information regarding suspected human trafficking or related criminal activity, please contact the San Bruno Police Department.

For media inquiries, please contact Sergeant Scott Smithmatungol at ssmithmatungol@sanbruno.ca.gov or 650-515-2296.

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