Franklin County is located in central Washington state. Pasco is the county seat and is one of three cities that make up the Tri-Cities region of the state (along with Richland, and Kennewick). Prostitution and sex trafficking activity have been well-documented in Pasco and surrounding communities, and in unincorporated areas of Franklin County.  This activity and the problems and ancillary crimes it generates results in complaints to law enforcement agencies from residents and businesses. Among the more serious crimes associated with the local commercial sex market is child sex trafficking.

Consumer level demand provides the revenue stream for all prostitution and sex trafficking, and has therefore been targeted by local law enforcement agencies as a strategy for prevention and response.  To identify and apprehend local sex buyers driving the prostitution and sex trafficking markets, the Pasco Police Department has conducted reverse stings, some in collaboration with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies. The operations are usually conducted in response to complaints from residents and businesses.