Ex-San Diego Detective Pleads Guilty to Running Sex Parlors
of sex trafficking and money laundering. A man who owned massage sex parlors has plead guilty to sex trafficking and money laundering.
SAN DIEGO, (AP) -- Tuesday's federal plea was accepted by a former San Diego detective who used his badge as well as his knowledge to operate a series of massage sex parlors throughout California and Arizona.
Peter Griffin and three others were convicted in San Diego federal court of racketeering related conspiracy, conspiracy to commit fraud by wire and other crimes. The U.S. Attorney's Office released a statement.
A wire fraud conviction can result in a sentence of up 30 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine.
Prosecutors claimed that Griffin and five others owned and operated five spas that offered massage services to women. These were listed online.
According to a grand jury Indictment, the businesses were located in and around San Diego, Arizona and Tempe, Arizona.
Griffin, 78, served with the San Diego Police Department between 1975 and 2002, including time with Vice Operations Unit, which investigates prostitution. Authorities said.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office statement, Griffin used his experience as a vice-detective (and in at least one instance his badge) to help the businesses evade the law enforcement; thwart regulation inspections, investigations, and any official action against them; conceal evidence, and maintain a façade of legitimacy.
"No one is above law." "I'm shocked that someone who once took an Oath to protect our community could prey upon the vulnerable," San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit stated in a statement.
He stated, "This is an important step towards justice for survivors of these crimes."