After an extensive five-month-long investigation into prostitution within Middlesex and Suffolk Counties, the Medford Police Department executed three search warrants resulting in four arrests.
On April 4, 2024, the Medford Police Department, along with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), executed search warrants at 100 Rivers Edge Drive in Medford, 31 Prentiss Street in Malden and 16 New England Avenue in Dorchester.
During the execution of the search warrants, detectives seized a large amount of U.S. currency and three vehicles for asset forfeiture across the three locations.
Yojanny Carolina Soto-Pena, 33, of Boston, was arrested and charged with Derive Support from Prostitution and Conspiracy.
Yoledi Deyemir Mejia Gomez, 25, of Medford, was arrested and charged with Sexual Conduct for Fee.
Edilennis Garcia Diaz, 37, of New York, was arrested and charged with Sexual Conduct for Fee.
Jorge Melendez-Olivera, 38, of Malden, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Soto-Pena, Gomez, and Diaz were released on bail last night and Melendez-Olivera is expected to be arraigned today at Somerville District Court.
Warrants will be sought for the arrests of 3-4 more individuals involved and there are additional charges pending.
We would like to thank Homeland Security Investigations, Boston Police Department B-3 Detectives, Cambridge Police Department, Revere Police Department and Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this investigation.
The Medford Police Department prides itself on conducting thorough investigations to ensure the safety and quality of life for all residents in our community. Through the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies, we were able to successfully carry out a large-scale prostitution investigation, targeting those who exploit vulnerable individuals and undermine the well-being of our city. This operation serves as a clear message that the Medford Police Department, alongside our dedicated law enforcement partners, will not tolerate illegal activities that degrade our community and escalate into more serious offenses. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in our pursuit of justice.
##