228 people, including U.S. military personnel and teachers, have been arrested in a major human trafficking bust in Florida, authorities announced Tuesday.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said 150 suspects (johns), 66 prostitutes and 12 others were arrested in a multi-agency operation dubbed Operation Grief March 2024. Ta. The suspects included school teachers, coaches, and active military personnel. Profession.
Of the 228 people arrested, 21 were illegal immigrants.
Authorities also identified at least 13 potential trafficking victims. The sheriff noted that 58 human trafficking victims have been identified within a year of conducting this type of operation.
Judd said one of the suspects who offered to pay the woman $150 to have sex told authorities he was a volleyball coach from New York who was tutoring middle school students.
The other man arrested was a math and science teacher at New Beginnings High School in Auburndale, Judd said.
“He came to have sex. He said it was a quick visit for $60,” Judd told reporters. “Well, he can teach you math so you can figure out what didn’t add up this time.”
Three Air Force personnel were also arrested in the incident. One was an Air Force sergeant major, another was an Air Force police officer, and the third was a 19-year-old who was scheduled to begin Air Force training in May, Judd said.
A former detention deputy with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was also arrested.
“Hey, what are you doing?” Judd asked. “You went from being a good employee to committing moral crimes, twice a month.” He said, “We’ve got a problem.” no kidding. you have a big problem. ”
Two brothers, ages 16 and 17, appeared in front of the bust armed with BB guns and wearing ski masks and hoodies to commit an armed robbery against a detective posing as prostitutes they had met online, Judd said. He was arrested.
“This is a new record for the number of arrests in this type of investigation,” Judd said, adding that social services will support the women to help them escape this lifestyle.
