Ohio Trafficking Operation Results in Over 130 Arrests

Ohio authorities arrested 132 individuals and found over 70 victims in a massive statewide anti-human trafficking operation, highlighting the ongoing battle against these crimes.

At a Glance

Operation END-OHHT spanned 19 Ohio counties and involved over 100 law enforcement agencies
132 arrests were made in the operation.
Over 70 human trafficking survivors were identified and referred to support services.
More than $20,000 and related evidence were seized during the operation.
The operation aimed to curb demand and reinforce consequences for these crimes.

Massive Statewide Operation Targets Human Trafficking

In a sweeping effort to combat human trafficking, Ohio law enforcement agencies joined forces in an operation that resulted in 132 arrests and the discovery of over 70 victims. The initiative, named “Operation END-OHHT,” covered 19 counties across the state and involved the collaboration of more than 100 law enforcement agencies. This coordinated effort showcased Ohio’s commitment to eradicating human trafficking and holding perpetrators accountable.

The operation targeted individuals seeking to buy relations, with arrests spanning a wide age range from 21 to 71 years old. Among those apprehended was a 55-year-old man from West Virginia, demonstrating the operation’s reach beyond state borders. The diverse backgrounds of those arrested included laborers, government employees, and business owners, highlighting the pervasive nature of this criminal activity across various sectors of society.

Charges and Seizures

The majority of the arrests, over 100, were related to charges of engaging in prostitution or solicitation. However, the operation also uncovered more severe offenses, including individuals seeking commercial relations with minors and possession of narcotics. Law enforcement conducted raids on nine locations linked to human trafficking activities, including massage parlors and a motel. These efforts resulted in the seizure of more than $20,000 and the collection of crucial evidence to support ongoing investigations and prosecutions.

“We have to attack this scourge by curbing the demand,” said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost in a statement.

The operation’s success was not only measured in arrests but also in the identification and rescue of human trafficking survivors. Over 70 individuals were identified as victims and promptly referred to healthcare and social services, emphasizing the operation’s dual focus on law enforcement and victim support.

Collaborative Effort and Future Implications

The operation’s success was largely due to the unprecedented collaboration between various local, state, and federal agencies. This included participation from Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI, alongside numerous local task forces such as the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office acknowledged the contributions of over 100 law enforcement agencies and non-governmental organizations in making the operation possible.

The operation serves as a stark warning to those involved in human trafficking and sends a clear message about Ohio’s stance on this issue. By targeting the demand side of human trafficking, authorities aim to disrupt the cycle of exploitation and create a safer environment for vulnerable individuals. The success of Operation END-OHHT demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in combating human trafficking and sets a precedent for future operations both within Ohio and across the nation.