Philadelphia police have arrested four people as part of a crackdown on those who use websites like Backpage.com to advertise and solicit sex.
Investigators on Thursday arrested Jonathan Nadler, 34, of Wyncote, Pa.; Bruce Hertzfeld, 49, of Narberth, Pa. and Philadelphia men George Thomas, 40, and Roxie Turner, 18.
Authorities said the arrests came after a three-day sting during which undercover female officers with the Citywide Vice Enforcement Unit posed as prostitutes and advertised their “services” on Backpage.com.
Police said the bogus ads led detectives to conduct an operation at a Center City hotel.
That’s where the four men were arrested for allegedly attempting to solicit sex from officers.
The men are charged with criminal solicitation and patronizing prostitutes.
Thomas and Turner are also charged with marijuana possession.
All four suspects were released Friday on their own recognizance.
They are next due in court May 7 for a status hearing.
