Polk County Prostitution Sting: What It Means for Sarasota County Residents

At Pallegar Law, Sarasota’s trusted criminal defense firm, we stay up-to-date with law enforcement trends across Central Florida that may affect our clients—especially those involving high-profile stings like the recent solicitation of prostitution crackdown in Polk County.

Operation “Fool Around and Find Out” – A Regional Wake-Up Call

In May 2025, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office conducted a 9-day undercover sting that resulted in 255 arrests for crimes ranging from solicitation of prostitution to human trafficking and child exploitation. The operation involved both suspects offering sexual services and individuals seeking to purchase them—many of whom had no prior criminal records.

Although this operation occurred in Polk County, its impact extends far beyond county lines. Sarasota County residents and visitors should be aware: law enforcement agencies throughout Florida are increasing coordination and undercover surveillance efforts to target similar activity.

Arrested for Solicitation in Sarasota County? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you or someone you care about is facing solicitation of prostitution charges in Sarasota, it’s critical to act fast. At Pallegar Law, we’ve successfully represented dozens of individuals charged with prostitution-related offenses across Southwest Florida.

We focus on:

• Avoiding convictions that carry lifelong consequences
• Minimizing fines, probation, and jail time
• Negotiating civil penalty waivers (such as Florida’s $5,000 mandatory fine)
• Exploring pre-trial diversion or education-based mitigation strategies

We don’t judge—we defend. Whether you were caught in an online sting, undercover setup, or unknowingly swept into an investigation, we fight to protect your future.

Sarasota County Prostitution Defense – Know Your Rights

Florida law treats solicitation and prostitution as criminal offenses, but the penalties can vary widely depending on:

• First-time vs. repeat offense
• Whether there’s alleged trafficking or coercion
• Involvement of a minor or undercover officer
• Possession of weapons, drugs, or large amounts of cash

At Pallegar Law, we review every detail—police tactics, video evidence, entrapment concerns—and work toward the most favorable outcome for you.

What Makes Pallegar Law Different?

• Former prosecutor with deep understanding of the Florida criminal justice system
• Proven track record defending solicitation and human trafficking-related charges
• Discreet, non-judgmental legal service with aggressive courtroom advocacy
• Based locally in Sarasota, serving Manatee, Polk, and Hillsborough Counties

We believe everyone deserves a second chance—and we’ll fight for yours.

Caught in a Prostitution Sting? Don’t Talk to Police Without a Lawyer

Remember: if you are stopped, arrested, or questioned in connection with a prostitution sting or human trafficking operation in Sarasota, you have the right to remain silent and request legal representation.

Contact Pallegar Law immediately at 941-893-5816 for a confidential case review.