OVERLAND PARK, KS (KCTV) -
Prostitution could be happening in your neighborhood and you may not even know it.
Prostitution isn't what typically comes to mind when people talk about Johnson County, KS, but a series of sting operations, including one in Overland Park, have been more lucrative than people might think.
"We do them (stings) a lot - we really do," Officer Gary Mason said.
Prostitution can go somewhere else is a message police are trying to make very clear. The message is being delivered on a regular basis in the form of sting operations.
"We try to do them once a month and on an irregular basis so people don't have an idea when we're doing them, so it's good to keep it fresh and try different things and send the message we don't want that in Overland Park," Mason said.
Last Thursday night OP's vice squad set up shop, luring potential johns and prostitutes to a local motel. Five people were arrested, including 30-year-old Michelle Essig of Hannibal, MO. She was charged with prostitution. Her husband, 31-year-old Ricky Essig, was charged with promoting prostitution.
Investigators said three others were also charged with everything from soliciting to drugs.
Cities all across Johnson County are stepping up efforts to crack down on prostitution.
Last month, Prairie Village police arrested 52 people during a two and a half day sting operation, including 26 prostitutes, 11 johns and 15 pimps. The sting was held inside a house near 76th Street and State Line Road and, while each sting is set up differently, police frequently start with the want ads.
Police are warning that, while you may find whatever it is you're looking for in Johnson County, the chances are great they will find you.
"I think we're getting the message out that if you're going to do this thing that we don't want it in Overland Park," Mason said.
Investigators said the public is of great help when it comes to tracking down prostitutes and always recommend that if someone suspects something illegal is happening near them, to call and let police know.
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