According to a Eureka Police Department press release, an investigation was launched into alleged acts of prostitution taking place at a residence in Eureka.
A search warrant was obtained for the residence after the investigation revealed that the occupants of the residence were using an online escort web page called “SKIPTHEGAMES” to solicit clients for prostitution, and on February 26, 2020, a sting operation was initiated with a Detective and the investigating Senior Officer.
39 year old Suntalena Downs of Eureka, and 52 year old Michelle Casanas of Eureka, were found to be on the SKIPTHEGAMES website as escorts and were contacted via text by detectives. Instructions were sent by text and the detective responded to the residence.
The detective entered the residence and an agreement was made for services. This verbal agreement of services met the legal requirement for a violation of Prostitution. Officers then entered the residence and executed the search warrant. Electronic evidence was seized for analysis as well as evidence associated with narcotics use and sales.
39 year old Suntalena Downs of Eureka, and 52 year old Michelle Casanas of Eureka were both arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where they were booked for prostitution and maintaining a drug house.