ARIZONA NEWS

Former detective pleads guilty to running sex parlors in Arizona, California

Apr 5, 2023, 9:03 AM

(Pixabay Photo)...

(Pixabay Photo)

(Pixabay Photo)

SAN DIEGO (AP) — A former San Diego police detective who used his badge and his knowledge to run a string of massage sex parlors in California and Arizona pleaded guilty Tuesday to federal charges.

Peter Griffin and three other defendants entered pleas in San Diego federal court to racketeering-related conspiracy, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and other crimes, the U.S. attorney’s office said in a statement.

The wire fraud charge carries a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

Prosecutors said that between 2013 and 2022, Griffin and the others owned and operated five massage spas that employed women to perform sexual services that were advertised online.

The businesses were located in and around San Diego and in Tempe, Arizona, according to a grand jury indictment.

Griffin, 78, was with the San Diego Police Department from 1975 to 2002, including time with the Vice Operations Unit that investigates prostitution, authorities said.

“According to his plea agreement, throughout the course of the scheme, Griffin used the experience and skills he acquired through his work as a vice detective – and in at least one instance, his badge – to help the businesses evade law enforcement; thwart regulatory inspections, investigations and any official action against the businesses; conceal evidence and maintain a façade of legitimacy,” the U.S. attorney’s office statement said.

“No one is above the law. I’m appalled that someone who once took an oath to protect our community could prey on the vulnerable,” San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit said in a statement.

“This is an important step toward justice for the survivors of these crimes,” he said.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Pass it along to the KTAR News team here.

Arizona News

(KTAR News Photo/Jason Veazey)...

KTAR.com

Fire closes eastbound Loop 101 ramp to southbound State Route 51 in Phoenix

A fire closed the eastbound Loop 101 ramp to southbound State Route 51 in Phoenix on Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

13 hours ago

A sign over the stage of the 2023 Scripps Natioanal Spelling Bee in suburban Washington, D.C....

Kevin Stone

Last Arizona contestant falls in 6th round of Scripps National Spelling Bee

Arizona’s last remaining contestant in the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee was eliminated in the sixth round Wednesday.

13 hours ago

File photo headshots of Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs and her new chief of staff, Chad Campbell...

KTAR.com

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs names former House Democratic leader as chief of staff

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs announced Wednesday the former House Democratic Leader will step into the role as her new chief of staff.

13 hours ago

(YouTube Screenshot/Pastor for AZ)...

KTAR.com

Laura Pastor the latest Arizona Democrat to jump into race for Ruben Gallego’s seat in Congress

Phoenix City Councilwoman Laura Pastor on Wednesday joined a crowded Democratic field to replace Ruben Gallego's seat in Congress.

13 hours ago

Follow @suelenrivera...

SuElen Rivera

Arizona Snowbowl concludes longest winter season in ski resort’s history

Arizona Snowbowl concluded its longest winter season in the Flagstaff ski resort's history on Monday, officials said.

13 hours ago

Booking photo of Jose Chagnon, who was arrested Tuesday, May 30, 2023, on suspecion of killing his ...

KTAR.com

Avondale man suspected of killing wife arrested after barricade situation

The suspect in a fatal shooting was arrested Tuesday after an hourlong barricade situation in Avondale, authorities said.

13 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

...

SANDERSON FORD

Thank you to Al McCoy for 51 years as voice of the Phoenix Suns

Sanderson Ford wants to share its thanks to Al McCoy for the impact he made in the Valley for more than a half-decade.

...

OCD & Anxiety Treatment Center

How to identify the symptoms of 3 common anxiety disorders

Living with an anxiety disorder can be debilitating and cause significant stress for those who suffer from the condition.

(Photo by Michael Matthey/picture alliance via Getty Images)...

Cox Communications

Valley Boys & Girls Club uses esports to help kids make healthy choices

KTAR’s Community Spotlight focuses on the Boys & Girls Club of the Valley and the work to incorporate esports into children's lives.

Former detective pleads guilty to running sex parlors in Arizona, California