Fresno PD makes several arrests in Central Fresno, cracking down on prostitution

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Several businesses are scattered along the Belmont corridor between First Street and Maple Avenue.

Neighbors reached out to Fresno Police about the need to clear the area of prostitution. On Wednesday seven officers set out to do just that.

"We hit the area for approximately five hours due to the weather and during that short time we ended up arresting 10 people," said Fresno Police Lt. Stephen Viveros.

Of particular concern were the ages of two of them.

"We contacted two juveniles that were working as prostitutes out there. Being that they're victims of human trafficking we sought out the help of CPS," said Lt. Viveros.

At Fresno City Hall the EOC sanctuary was honored for its work against modern day slavery.

"We've seen over 600 survivors of human trafficking identified over the last 10 years and so many more we hope to meet in the coming years," said Melissa Gomez.

Lt. Viveros says the Belmont area is not as notorious for prostitution as the parkway area along Highway 99.

Business owners say prostitutes stroll the avenue every afternoon.

Lt. Viveros says regular sweeps will now be conducted on Belmont to try to clean up the neighborhood.

"We're going to continue to focus on that area and make sure this type of activity is not occurring in this area anymore," said Viveros.

Fresno Police will also aim cameras from its real-time crime center on Belmont to keep a close eye on the area.