Eleven people are facing prostitution charges after the Chattanooga Police Department conducted a two-day undercover escort sting last week, officials say.
Investigators targeted Internet-based prostitution during the operation, said police spokeswoman Sgt. Jerri Weary.
Suspects answered advertisments on the Internet for escort services by responding to a hotel and agreeing to exchange money for sexual favors.
Weary said investigators were not revealing what hotel or hotels the prostitution ring was working out due to the sensitivity of the undercover operation and the possibility of additional arrests.
The defendants were charged with either prostitution, patronizing prostitution - both misdemeanors, or promoting prostitution, which is a felony. Weary said those charged will be required to turn themselves over to the Hamilton County Jail within a 30-day span.
In addition to the arrests, police seized $1,860 in cash.
Listed below are those cited and their related charges.
Promoting prostitution within 1.5 miles of a school
• Sonya Smith, 38
Prostitution within 1.5 miles of a school
• Ashley Negron, 19
• Nicholas Moto, 35
Patronizing prostitution within 1.5 miles of a school
• Joe Stewart, 45
• John Thompson, 46
• Brian Sabo, 33
• Scotty Bowman, 36
• Jason Schwab, 48
• Vincent Raya, 45
• Malcolm Henley, 48
• Mike Sharp, age not given