Tampa police arrest five in Valentine's Day prostitution sting

TAMPA — Police arrested five men they said were soliciting prostitutes Sunday night near N Nebraska Avenue and E Lambright St.

The operation, dubbed "Happy Valentine's Day" by police, began at 9 p.m. in response to neighborhood complaints about prostitution in the Nebraska Avenue corridor.

The sting targeted patrons, or "Johns," who solicit women for sexual acts.

They arrested Antwuan M. Harrison, 32; Francois L. Senat, 25; Kendrick D. Burk, 19; Moises D. Hernandez-Ortiz, 21; and a juvenile who was not named.

Police said Hernandez-Ortiz was also carrying a concealed gun that was reported stolen by the Pasco County Sheriff's Office. Police arrested him on charges of carrying a concealed firearm, grand theft and marijuana possession. They also seized his 1998 Mitsubishi.

Police said Burk tried to run from officers and damaged an undercover police car. They arrested him on charges of criminal mischief, driving with a suspended license and resisting arrest without violence.

There were no injuries.

Police warned they would conduct more operations like this in the future.

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