Hayward Cop Accused of Bribery, Sex Trafficking Ties

Officer Benjamin Yarbrough allegedly accepted cash and sexual services from an illegal brothel in exchange for protection and tipping off the business.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:33am

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A Hayward police officer is under investigation for alleged bribery after authorities say he accepted money and free sexual services from an illegal brothel. Officer Benjamin Yarbrough, 48, is accused of using his position to extort a brothel operator in exchange for protection, tipping off the business about law enforcement activity, and investigating competitors.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about corruption within law enforcement and the challenges of combating human trafficking and the underground sex trade. It also raises questions about oversight and accountability for police misconduct, especially when it involves high-ranking officers.

The details

Investigators say they uncovered communication between Yarbrough and the brothel operator, Yangiong Xiong, in which Yarbrough allegedly arranged sexual encounters and received a $1,000 payment in exchange for protecting the illegal business. Surveillance footage also allegedly shows Yarbrough visiting the brothel. Yarbrough has denied the allegations.

  • The alleged incidents occurred between March 12, 2025 and April 1, 2025.
  • Xiong was arrested in June 2025 for running an illegal brothel in San Jose.

The players

Benjamin Yarbrough

A 48-year-old Hayward police officer accused of accepting bribes and sexual services from an illegal brothel in exchange for protection and tipping off the business.

Yangiong Xiong

The operator of an illegal brothel in San Jose who allegedly paid Yarbrough $1,000 and provided sexual services in exchange for protection.

Bryan Matthews

The Hayward Police Chief and Yarbrough's brother-in-law, who immediately contacted the district attorney's office upon learning of the investigation due to the family connection.

Ursula Jones Dickson

The Alameda County District Attorney leading the criminal investigation into Yarbrough.

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What they’re saying

“I don't bust, I protect and keep safe,”

— Benjamin Yarbrough

“After learning this information, and because of my familial relationship with Officer Yarbrough, I immediately contacted Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson and requested her office conduct the criminal investigation.”

— Bryan Matthews, Hayward Police Chief

“Any criminal conduct on the part of any Hayward Police Department employee will not be tolerated, regardless of any personal relationships that may exist.”

— Bryan Matthews, Hayward Police Chief

What’s next

Yarbrough has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The judge will decide whether to allow Yarbrough out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures within law enforcement to prevent corruption and abuse of power, especially when it involves high-ranking officers. It also underscores the challenges of combating human trafficking and the underground sex trade.