COLUMBUS, Ohio — A statewide human trafficking operation resulted in the arrest of 132 people who sought to buy sex, including some exchanges involving minors.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced the results of the operation during a press briefing on Monday.
The operation, dubbed Operation END-OHHT, was led by the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission and took place from Oct. 6 through Oct. 12. More than 100 law enforcement agencies participated in 19 counties, including Franklin County.
“Human trafficking is a serious issue nationwide, and, unfortunately, Franklin County is not exempt from its impact. This is why we once again partnered with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement agencies to combat this illegal activity. Our collaboration helps strengthen our investigations and convictions. This also allows us a chance to offer much-needed support to the victims caught in this heinous crime,” Franklin County Sherrif Dallas Baldwin said.
Those arrested included 110 people who were charged with engaging in prostitution or solicitation, according to Yost. Additionally, 22 other suspects were charged with seeking commercial sex with a minor and/or possessing narcotics.
Yost said the suspects’ age ranged from 21 to 71. Their backgrounds include laborers and government employees to students and business owners. One of the suspects works for the Ohio Treasurer’s Office.
“Operation END-OHHT reinforced the consequences for those who think that engaging in prostitution is permissible,” Yost said. “Our message is simple: Don’t buy sex in Ohio!”
During the operation, law enforcement identified 74 human trafficking survivors who received resources for healthcare and social services.
If you suspect sex and labor trafficking happening In your area, you can call the non-emergency hotline, 844-END-OHHT (363-6448) to submit a tip.