Eleven people were taken into custody Thursday after the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and partner agencies concluded a year‑long investigation into alleged illegal prostitution at the Montana Hideaway, a commercial establishment in Far East El Paso.
Operation and agencies involved
DPS’s Criminal Investigations Division worked alongside the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Highway Patrol, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and U.S. Border Patrol. The coordinated effort targeted suspected sex‑trafficking and prostitution activities that authorities said were taking place at the venue.
Charges and evidence
According to the department, suspects face charges that may include engaging in criminal activity and prostitution. DPS released mugshots of nine of the arrested individuals. The investigation uncovered $72,710 in cash seized from the location.
Documents obtained by the agency identified the Montana Hideaway as a brothel. An arrest affidavit states that a human‑trafficking victim told agents the owners were aware of sex‑trafficking and prostitution occurring on the premises. The affidavit further describes how commercial sex workers negotiated sexual services for money, with staff collecting entrance fees and providing bracelets that granted access to a VIP room where the illicit activity took place.
Owner involvement
Records list Jose Lopez as one of the Hideaway’s owners. Undercover agents reported that workers offered clients $200‑$500 for sexual intercourse, with a portion of the proceeds directed to the “House” or manager. During a covert interview, a suspect named Cadena told a special agent that the owner was knowledgeable about the VIP‑room activity and would not be upset because the establishment received a percentage of the money earned by the workers.
Ongoing investigation
The DPS confirmed that the investigation remains active and that additional charges or arrests could follow as authorities continue to review evidence and interview witnesses.
Local law‑enforcement officials emphasized the importance of protecting victims of human trafficking and enforcing Texas statutes that prohibit prostitution and related crimes. The operation demonstrates a continued commitment by state and federal partners to combat illegal enterprises that exploit vulnerable individuals.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
