Rockford Police Crack Down on Prostitution

The sting lasted more than 10 hours and specifically focused on criminals who use the internet to advertise sex.

"This is not a victimless crime," said Rockford Police Chief Chet Epperson.  "There's many people that are effected by the life of a prostitute."

It's the latest in an effort to clean up Rockford's streets.

"We look at multiple data bases, newspapers, television stations, internet," said Epperson.

Over 40 officers from multiple area law enforcement agencies crack down on prostitution, targeting those who use the web to advertise their service.

"The internet has become the pathway for prostitutes to communicate their services," said Winnebago County State's Attorney Joe Bruscato.

While using the internet to advertise sex is the latest trend, it's one Bruscato says police are monitoring closely.

"We understand what's going on, we are aware of the services that are being offered and the method by which they are being communicated," said Bruscato.

Of the 13 people arrested on prostitution charges, 8 were arrested in the 7400 block of East State Street, and 4 just a couple blocks away.  It's an area chief Epperson says police are visiting often.

"We've had previous calls of chaos in some of those areas," said Epperson.

Police arrested people on charges ranging from felony prostitution, to promoting prostitution, to drug offenses.  After a successful operation police say they plan to continue monitoring social media websites to help keep the streets clean.

"If you chose to continue that behavior we will put our resources out, we will address the issue, we will arrest you," said Epperson.

Chief Epperson says no officers were injured during the fifth clean sweep operation and says they also impounded 2 cars during the sting.

Police also says if you see anything illegal, first call the police, but also consider forming a neighborhood watch group to help to deter these types of crimes.