Undercover Operation Saves Two Girls From Human Trafficking

In November 2021, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Florida began a three-month undercover operation with some of its detectives posing as minors. The operation was successful, as two 15-year-old girls were rescued and 18 people have been arrested.

According to People, the suspects are each facing numerous charges, including child porn. Nine of the suspects were arrested upon traveling to meet minors and one of the suspects happens to be an elementary school teacher. According to WFTS Tampa Bay, the suspects solicited sexual acts/favors from the detectives [posing as teens].

“The HCSO Human Trafficking Squad works diligently to save our children from becoming victims to sexual predators that use technology to hunt in the shadows of the internet,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister.

If you or someone you know is being trafficked, call: (888) 373-7888 National Human Trafficking Hotline

Photo from: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office/Twitter