Posted on 04/18/2021 9:02:07 AM PDT by CheshireTheCat
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today announced the success of a Central Ohio human trafficking operation that took place April 14-15 in partnership with federal, state and local law enforcement.
Operation 614, coordinated through AG Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission, encompassed more than 20 law enforcement agencies and nongovernmental partners to address issues that fuel sex trafficking in central Ohio....
In total, 53 victims were identified and referred to services and 93 arrests were made. For the first time in Ohio, those seeking to purchase sex were charged with engaging in prostitution, a misdemeanor of the first degree. This charge was created under House Bill 431, which became effective on Monday, April 12. Under the new law, an offender will be required to attend an education or treatment program aimed at preventing a person from inducing, enticing or procuring another to engage in sexual activity for hire.
During the operation, the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force and police departments from Columbus, Dublin, New Albany and Westerville worked collaboratively to identify victims of human trafficking. Victims were linked with advocates and social services provided by the Salvation Army.
“Human trafficking is a heinous crime and a morally reprehensible act that deprives a person of their liberty and dignity for another person’s gain,” said Sgt. Dana Hess, Director of the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force. “The task force strives to establish a relationship of trust with all victims and is committed to eradicating all forms of human trafficking in Central Ohio.”
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office’s Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) targeted and apprehended those seeking to engage in sexual activity with minors....
(Excerpt) Read more at ohioattorneygeneral.gov ...
For your consideration.
Names of those apprehended made public....
Yes, a new law requiring treatment and education will fix the problem. Just like the millions of laws against prostitution have worked throughout all history.
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AG Dave Yost Announces Success of Central Ohio Human Trafficking Sting ‘Operation 614’
OhioAttorneyGeneral ^ | April 16, 2021 | Staff
Posted on 4/18/2021, 12:02:07 PM by CheshireTheCat
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