The FBI has announced the results of a nationwide sex trafficking operation, known as Operation Cross Country. Over the course of two weeks in August, the FBI, along with state and local partners, identified and located 84 minor victims of child sex trafficking and child sexual exploitation. In addition to the recovery of missing children, the operation also resulted in the identification of 141 adult victims of human trafficking, and the arrest of 85 suspects involved in child sexual exploitation and human trafficking offenses. The average age of the victims located during the operation was 15.5, with the youngest victim being only 11 years old. This nationwide initiative demonstrates the ongoing commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat the heinous crimes of human trafficking and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
FBI Announces Results Nationwide Sex Trafficking Operation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has recently announced the results of Operation Cross Country XII, a nationwide enforcement campaign aimed at combating sex trafficking and human trafficking. Over the course of two weeks in August, the FBI, in collaboration with state and local partners, identified and located 84 minor victims of child sex trafficking and child sexual exploitation offenses. Additionally, 37 actively missing children were found during this operation.
Operation Cross Country XII Leads to Identification/Location of Adolescent Victims
During Operation Cross Country XII, the FBI and its partners focused on identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking, including adolescent victims. The efforts of the operation led to the successful identification and location of 84 minor victims of child sex trafficking and child sexual exploitation offenses. This outcome represents a significant step forward in the fight against these heinous crimes.
Number of Victims Identified and Located
In addition to the 84 minor victims identified and located, the FBI and its partners also located 141 adult victims of human trafficking. This comprehensive operation aimed to address both child sex trafficking and human trafficking, ensuring that all victims receive the necessary support and assistance. The identification and location of these victims is a testament to the diligent work of law enforcement agencies across the country.
Identification and Location of Missing Children
One of the notable achievements of Operation Cross Country XII is the identification and location of 37 actively missing children. These children, who may have been at risk of falling prey to sex trafficking or other forms of exploitation, have been safely located. The collaborative efforts of the FBI and its partners have undoubtedly saved these children from potentially dire circumstances.
Identification and Location of Adult Victims
In addition to the minors identified and located, the operation also resulted in the identification and location of 141 adult victims of human trafficking. These individuals, often vulnerable and exploited, have now been given the opportunity to receive the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Addressing the issue of human trafficking requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses both underage and adult victims.
Identification and Arrest of Suspects
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in Operation Cross Country XII led to the identification and arrest of 85 suspects involved in child sexual exploitation and human trafficking offenses. These suspects will undergo additional investigation for potential charges, ensuring that justice is served and that those responsible for these heinous crimes face the consequences of their actions. The arrest of these suspects sends a clear message that the FBI and its partners are actively working to dismantle criminal networks involved in trafficking operations.
Average Age of Victims
The average age of the victims located during Operation Cross Country XII was 15.5 years old, highlighting the vulnerability of young individuals targeted by traffickers. It is distressing to learn that even children as young as 11 years old were discovered as victims during this operation. These sobering statistics reinforce the urgent need for continued efforts to combat sex trafficking and protect vulnerable populations.
Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement and Organizations
Operation Cross Country XII exemplifies the power of collaboration between the FBI and local law enforcement agencies, as well as organizations dedicated to supporting victims of trafficking. In the case of the Honolulu Division, FBI agents worked closely with the United States Secret Service, Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office, and the Honolulu Police Department, in addition to organizations such as Missing Child Center Hawaii (MCCH), State of Hawaii Child Welfare Services (CWS), and the Susanna Wesley Community Center (SWCC). The success of this operation would not have been possible without the combined efforts and expertise of these various entities.
Operations Conducted during Operation Cross Country XII
Throughout Operation Cross Country XII, FBI special agents, intelligence analysts, victim specialists, and child adolescent forensic interviewers worked alongside more than 200 state, local, and federal partners. Their combined efforts resulted in the execution of 391 operations over the span of two weeks. This expansive outreach and enforcement effort allowed for the identification, rescue, and support of numerous trafficking victims, as well as the apprehension of individuals involved in these criminal enterprises.
In conclusion, the results of Operation Cross Country XII serve as a reminder of the pervasive nature of sex trafficking and human trafficking in our society. The identification and location of numerous victims, both minors and adults, highlight the urgent need for continued vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement agencies and organizations dedicated to victim support. The FBI remains committed to combating these crimes, rescuing victims, and holding perpetrators accountable. The success of Operation Cross Country XII demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.