LEWISTON — At least six men were charged Thursday night in a police sting targeting prostitution downtown.

Beginning at about 4:45 p.m., police began charging men who they say attempted to solicit an undercover officer on Ash Street.

The charges were made across the street from the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, an area identified as a problem spot for prostitution.

Police charged the following suspects Thursday near the intersection of Horton and Ash streets:

• Pedro Bumba, 21, of 6 Howard St., Lewiston, on a charge of engaging a prostitute, 4:47 p.m.
• Scott Lever, 57, of Auburn, on a charge of engaging a prostitute, 5:19 p.m.
• Hammon Buck, 62, of Thomaston, on a charge of engaging a prostitute, 5:27 p.m.
• Kyle Emmons, 26, of Gardiner, on a charge of engaging a prostitute, 6:42 p.m.
• Christopher M. Nelson, 55, of Minot.
• William T. Turner, age 81, of Auburn.

Since the start of the year, police have been collaborating with the Androscoggin County District Attorney’s Office and local social service advocates to address prostitution, especially in inner-city areas.

In March, police arrested three women accused of engaging in prostitution downtown.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Lewiston Police Department identified Nelson and Turner on Friday morning as two more suspects charged Thursday night. Their names were added to the story then.

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