Woman, 45, To Be Arraigned For Operating 3 OC Brothels

SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — A 45-year-old Orange County woman was scheduled to be arraigned on pimping and pandering charges Thursday after she was busted for operating several brothels.

Nga "Sandra" Tran, of Lake Forest, was arrested Tuesday following an investigation that identified her as the owner and operator of three brothels, the Orange County Sheriff's Department said.

Tran is suspected of exploiting four women, ages 19, 20, 24, and 42,  who worked for her as prostitutes over a three year period at businesses in Irvine, Lake Forest and Stanton.

The businesses were disguised as massage parlors that were advertised on websites know for prostitution, the Orange County District Attorney's Office said.

"As operator/owner of the brothel, Tran collected a portion of the proceeds from sex services performed and provided condoms, lubricant and information on ways to avoid detection by law enforcement," Lt. Jeff Hallock said.

Tran is being held without bail at the Orange County Jail and faces 10 years in state prison if convicted.