“Operation Trade Secrets” — 85 arrests in Florida in Human Trafficking Sting

Authorities in Florida say they’ve arrested 85 people in a months long human trafficking sting.

The Tampa Bay Timesreports that Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister announced the arrests Monday.

Officials say “Operation Trade Secrets” began at the outset of the year, focusing on hotels, motels, spas, massage parlors, strip clubs, adult bookstores and other activities. – Source WPTV

The following video is courtesy of FOX 13 News – Tampa Bay:

Hillsborough County deputies rounded up dozens of men and women suspected of sex-related crimes as part of a six-month operation targeting human traffickers.

During a news conference Monday, Sheriff Chad Chronister said Operation Trade Secrets landed 85 in jail.

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Fox 13 goes on to report:

Hillsborough County deputies rounded up dozens of men and women suspected of sex-related crimes as part of a six-month operation targeting human traffickers.

During a news conference Monday, Sheriff Chad Chronister said Operation Trade Secrets landed 85 in jail.

“The efforts behind Operation Trade Secrets will have no ending until human trafficking is stopped,” the sheriff said. “Whether you live here, are vacationing or visiting for any of our large upcoming sporting events like Wrestlemania or Super Bowl LV, there is zero tolerance for this type of predatory behavior. Our message for anyone involved with the despicable practice of human trafficking: stop because we’re coming for you.”

Chronister said the suspects face a range of charges including prostitution, sex trade, drugs, weapons and child pornography.

Marcell Walsh, 40, is the only person facing a human trafficking charge after, according to deputies, a woman told deputies Walsh was forcing her into prostitution.

Chronister believes there may be many more similar cases.

Trump promised to throw his full weight behind fight against human trafficking and this appears to be the latest small wave from what has been a tsunami of sexual-exploitation victories. Let’s not forget the major victory against NXIVM and Keith Raniere recently.

This is from WhiteHouse.gov:

This is an urgent humanitarian issue. My administration is committed to leveraging every resource we have to confront this threat, to support the victims and survivors, and to hold traffickers accountable for their heinous crimes.