For many years now, the state of Ohio has experienced a long-standing human trafficking problem…and luckily, the recent success of a massive week-long operation is an encouraging sign. Operation Buyer’s Remorse, led by Southeastern Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force and local law enforcement agencies has led to the successful arrest 160 individuals and rescue of 104 survivors.
Attorney General Dave Yost was proud to announce the results of this operation, which included search warrants at 11 massage parlors suspected of engaging in these activities. This success was made possible thanks to collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies from different parts of the state such as Columbus, Cleveland, Toledo, Akron, Youngstown, Marietta and Portsmouth.
Last week it was reported there’s been a significant uptick in missing kids in Ohio.
Today Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that a recent statewide crackdown on human trafficking has led to the arrest of over 160 people, including a former employee of a local… pic.twitter.com/oYJyKrbYlD
— LIZ CROKIN (@LizCrokin) October 3, 2023
Operation Buyer’s Remorse took place from September 25th till September 30th and it was launched under the guidance of AG Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC). The main goal here was to reduce demand for human trafficking services by arresting those trying to purchase sex while also providing resources for victims who were then interviewed by law enforcement officers.
It is worth noting that among those arrested were people from all walks life – ranging from EMT personnel and nurses to educators, retired individuals, former law enforcement officers as well as delivery drivers. The youngest person arrested during this operation was 17 while oldest one 84 years old – further emphasizing how widespread this problem really is in Ohio.
In addition to arresting potential perpetrators of human trafficking activities and interviewing survivors about their experiences, this operation sought out provide them with necessary support they need through healthcare organizations or social service providers.
As noted by AG Yost himself “Nearly 100 law enforcement agencies and service organizations participated in this operation – I am grateful for each and every partner who dedicated their time and resources”. This statement serves as a testament on how crucial partnership between government entities, non-profits as well as private companies can be when it comes tackling major social problems such us human trafficking.
