'Operation: April Fool's' catches 2 men trying to pay minors for sex: affidavit
Share and Follow


ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. (WFLA) — An undercover operation targeting human traffickers took down two men in what police called “Operation: April Fool’s.”

According to an arrest affidavit, the Zephyrhills Police Department began the online investigation targeting adults who were trying to pay children for sexual favors.

As part of “Operation: April Fool’s,” officers would text the suspects, posing as a 15-year-old girl, and ask them to meet in a hotel room.

Michael Mathis, 32, of Land O’ Lakes negotiated with the undercover cop to pay the “teen” $200 for sexual intercourse with “all holes” for an hour, the affidavit said. Mathis was detained at the hotel and was found carrying $251.

Mathis was arrested on April 12 for attempted human trafficking, seduction of a child and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. He was taken to the Pasco County Jail.

Angel Palustre, Jr., 36, of Zolfo Springs used the “ListCrawler” website to talk to the “teen” and arrange to meet at the Microtel Inn & Suites, according to the affidavit. Palustre walked to the hotel’s third floor and entered the room where he was detained by authorities.

Palustre agreed to pay $100 to engage in sexual intercourse, authorities said. He was arrested just before 2 a.m. on April 12 on charges of attempted human trafficking and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. He was taken to the Pasco County Detention Center.

Zephyrhills police worked alongside the Tampa Human Trafficking Task Force for this operation.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Minnesota Daycare Blames YouTube Video for Major Vandalism Incident

A daycare center in Minnesota reported significant vandalism on Wednesday following the…

DAZN Scores Victory: Continues Exclusive Broadcast of Belgian League Following Arbitration Win

BRUSSELS – In a resolution emerging from urgent arbitration, DAZN announced it…

Orlando Gears Up for 2026 with Exciting Family-Friendly Celebrations and Vibrant Downtown Festivities

ORLANDO, Fla. – As the clock inches closer to midnight and the…

Why France Granted Citizenship to George and Amal Clooney: A Strategic Move Explained

PARIS – The French government has officially granted citizenship to actor George…

US Military Launches Targeted Strike on Alleged Drug Vessels, Resulting in 8 Fatalities and Potential Survivors

WASHINGTON – The U.S. military announced on Wednesday that it conducted strikes…

Chief Justice Affirms Constitution’s Stability Amid Upcoming Pivotal Supreme Court Decisions

WASHINGTON – In a statement underscoring the enduring strength of the Constitution,…

Patriots’ Christian Barmore Faces Serious Allegations: Accused of Assaulting Girlfriend

New England Patriots defensive lineman Christian J. Barmore is currently facing charges…

Central Florida Senator Champions Groundbreaking AI Bill of Rights: What It Means for the Future

TALLAHASSEE – In a move aligning with one of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s…