Three South Florida College Students Arrested on Prostitution Charges in Coral Gables: Three college students from South Florida have been charged with prostitution following their arrest at a Coral Gables hotel. According to the police report, 19-year-old Samara Pamela Charlotin, 23-year-old Acacia Jerico Friedman, and 21-year-old Maury Noun were taken into custody on Wednesday.
Authorities reported that an undercover Coral Gables detective orchestrated the arrests by arranging a meeting with the students. During the operation, Noun allegedly negotiated a deal with the detective, offering sexual services with Friedman and Charlotin in exchange for $5,000.
The meeting took place at the Colonnade Hotel on Aragon Avenue, where Friedman and Charlotin met the detective and were subsequently arrested. Noun was also taken into custody for his involvement in arranging the transaction.
The three students have ties to local universities. According to NBC Miami, Acacia Friedman, originally from San Diego, is a student at the University of Miami. Maury Noun’s Facebook profile also indicates he is enrolled at the University of Miami. Meanwhile, Samara Charlotin’s Facebook page lists her as a student at Florida International University.
Police initiated the undercover operation after receiving tips about suspected prostitution activity involving the students. The Coral Gables Police Department has not disclosed how long the operation was in place, but the arrests have raised concerns about the growing presence of prostitution rings in South Florida, particularly among young adults.
Authorities highlighted the use of online platforms and social media as common tools for coordinating such activities. “We are seeing more instances where individuals use apps or websites to arrange illegal transactions, making it easier for law enforcement to track and set up operations like this,” a Coral Gables police spokesperson stated.
This case sheds light on the pressures and vulnerabilities that can lead students to engage in illegal activities. Advocacy groups have pointed out that some college students turn to prostitution or similar avenues due to financial stress, particularly as tuition and living expenses continue to rise.
However, law enforcement and community leaders emphasize that illegal actions have serious consequences. “While financial hardship is a reality for many, there are resources and opportunities available to students that do not involve breaking the law,” said a local advocacy representative.
The three students now face a series of prostitution-related charges. While Florida law classifies prostitution as a misdemeanor for first-time offenders, penalties can include fines, mandatory counseling, community service, and even jail time. Additionally, Noun may face further charges for facilitating the transaction.
This case also raises questions about how involvement in such crimes could impact their academic standing and future careers. Both the University of Miami and Florida International University have strict codes of conduct for students, and disciplinary action could range from suspension to expulsion depending on the outcome of the legal proceedings.
The arrests come amidst broader concerns about prostitution and human trafficking in South Florida, a region notorious for these issues. Proximity to international travel hubs, a vibrant nightlife scene, and large-scale events such as music festivals and sports championships make cities like Miami and Coral Gables attractive for such activities.
In response, local law enforcement agencies have ramped up efforts to combat prostitution, including undercover stings and increased surveillance of high-risk areas. Advocacy groups are also working to provide education and resources to vulnerable populations, including college students, to deter involvement in illegal activities.
The case involving Charlotin, Friedman, and Noun is still under investigation. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about other potential incidents or illegal activities to come forward. Meanwhile, the students are expected to appear in court to face the charges against them.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks and consequences of engaging in illegal behavior and the importance of seeking legal and ethical ways to overcome financial or personal challenges. As the investigation continues, the community remains focused on addressing the root causes that drive individuals, especially young people, toward criminal activity.
