Latest / Oakland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!
Oakland Trafficking Case Heads to Sentencing | Oakland News
A chilling human trafficking case unfolds in Oakland’s notorious “The Blade” on International Boulevard, where 37-year-old Michael Simon just pleaded guilty to conspiracy involving force, fraud, and coercion. Operating from June 2023 to September 2025, Simon’s crew recruited, controlled, and exploited victims—including two identified individuals—for commercial sex acts, using hotels and texts to orchestrate encounters. Victims had no autonomy over their schedules, pay, or locations, and noncompliance often led to brutal violence, including head and facial blows. Sentencing is set for October…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.