The Phoenix Police Department began making arrests on August 4, 2008, in an alleged prostitution ring reportedly headed by Paul Nichta, a resident of Paradise Valley, Arizona.

Nichta reportedly provided prostitutes to his customers through several web sites including Desert Divas, Az Confidential, Hips Tour and Escorts in Action.AZFamily: Online prostitution ring based in Phoenix busted (August 5, 2008)

The ring, which was believed to be based in Arizona, also had ties in New Mexico and Pennsylvania.AZFamily: Online prostitution ring based in Phoenix busted (August 5, 2008)

Nine key suspects, including Nichta have been arrested as well as some of the alleged prostitutes. Police have stated more arrests will be made in the coming weeks.ABC15.com: Nationwide Internet prostitution ring linked to the Valley (August 5, 2008)

• KPHO Phoenix: Police: Prostitution Ring Dismantled (August 5, 2008)

• ABC15.com: Nationwide Internet prostitution ring linked to the Valley (August 5, 2008)

• AZFamily.com: Online prostitution ring based in Phoenix busted (August 5, 2008)

• AZCentral: PV man alleged ringleader of prostitution ring (August 5, 2008)

• East Valley Tribune: Major 3-state prostitution ring broken up (August 6, 2008)