Indian-origin motel manager arrested in Los Angeles for profiting off prostitution, sex-trafficking

A motel manager of Indian origin was among 10 individuals arrested in Los Angeles in connection with a sex trafficking ring operating near the notorious Figueroa Corridor. Mukeshkumar Rambhai Patel, the on-site manager, faces financial crime charges related to human trafficking.

Federal investigators stated Patel was not a trafficker but accused him of profiting from prostitution. "The money told the story. As alleged, individuals associated with this location hid large amounts of illicit cash, manipulated records, and structured deposits to conceal proceeds from sex trafficking activities," said IRS Criminal Investigations agent Jose Gonzalez.

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The money told the story. As alleged, individuals associated with this location hid large amounts of illicit cash, manipulated records, and structured deposits to conceal proceeds from sex trafficking activities.

Between September 2024 and January 2026, Patel allegedly deposited $64,581 in proceeds from the gang's sex trafficking of children and adults. He is also charged with "structuring," a method of depositing small amounts of cash into bank accounts to avoid reporting large transactions.

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They are targeting and preying on girls in the foster care system who are the most vulnerable. This is about using a human being to make money for yourself.

Many of those arrested are linked to the Hoover Gang, which authorities claim largely controlled sex trafficking and prostitution along the corridor. A federal indictment unsealed Wednesday details 51 victims, some as young as 14. The gang members face charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking of a minor, and drug trafficking.

Prosecutors allege the gang recruited vulnerable girls and young women, particularly those in the foster care system or who had run away, through false promises, intimidation, and violence. Victims were allegedly supplied with drugs to create exploitable addictions. "They are targeting and preying on girls in the foster care system who are the most vulnerable. This is about using a human being to make money for yourself," said First Assistant US Attorney Bill Essayli, describing instances of severe violence against victims.

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They will beat them. One of them bit a piece of meat out of her cheek in her face, down to the cartilage. One of them was forced to have an abortion and then was forced to work that same night.