FBI Operation Rescues 200 Victims of Sex Trafficking

The FBI announced Tuesday that its “Operation Cross Country” identified and rescued 200 victims of sex trafficking.

The operation, which spanned across two weeks in July, also resulted in the identification or arrest of 126 suspects involved in child sexual exploitation and human trafficking offenses, with an additional 68 suspects of trafficking identified or arrested.

The operation succeeded in locating 59 minor victims of child sex trafficking and child sexual exploitation offenses. Simultaneously, it led to the discovery of 59 actively missing children.

Addressing the issue, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said, “Sex traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm.” The Attorney General also praised the success of the operation, noting that it “builds on the tremendous work the FBI has undertaken over many years to rescue minor victims and arrest those responsible for these unspeakable crimes.”

Operation Cross Country is a joint initiative of the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). It aims at identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking, investigating individuals, and dismantling criminal enterprises involved in child sex and human trafficking.

Christopher Wray, the FBI Director, commended the collaborative effort, stating that “this operation would not be possible without the commitment and collaboration from our state and local law enforcement partners.” He emphasized the FBI’s unwavering commitment to combatting this threat, and vowed to actively pursue the criminals responsible for these atrocities.

In its attempt to ensure a victim-centered, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed investigative response, the FBI works closely with victim specialists, child/adolescent forensic interviewers, and other victim service personnel, the Department of Justice said in a press release. These teams provide victims with services tailored to their individual needs, which may include crisis intervention, emergency food and clothing, transportation to receive emergency services, and locating shelter or housing.

The NCMEC President & CEO Michelle DeLaune hailed the operation as a success. “We applaud the FBI and their partner law enforcement agencies for their unwavering dedication to protecting children,” she said.

“Their tireless efforts in combatting crimes against children sends a powerful message that child sexual exploitation will not be tolerated,” she said.