Multi-agency task force arrests traffickers and rescues teens in Houston-area operation

A three-day, multi-agency operation conducted by the Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office and the Houston Police Department resulted in multiple arrests related to child exploitation and human trafficking. Officials announced the results at a press conference Friday morning.

The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Human Trafficking Recovery Alliance (HTRA) and the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, targeted online predators and traffickers and resulted in arrests for a variety of crimes, including child trafficking and online harassment. a minor.

Officer Ryan Gable detailed the results of the operation:

• 7 arrests for prostitution

• 3 arrests for encouraging prostitution

• 4 arrests for online harassment of a minorincluding a registered child sex offender

• 1 arrest for child trafficking

• 1 young person was rescued

“These joint efforts are about the safety and security of our children,” Gable said. “Each charge, arrest, and impacted life serves as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.”

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Commander Salaam Zia of the Houston Police Department Vice Division praised the cooperation between the agencies and the results they achieved together during Operation Safe Harbor.

Zia emphasized the importance of HTRA in dismantling human trafficking networks.

“When we join forces, we not only strengthen our ability to uphold justice and ensure public safety, but we also send a loud and clear message to survivors and traffickers alike. To survivors: Our collaboration tells us you are not alone. We see you and work tirelessly to protect you and hold accountable those who harm you. And to the traffickers: We make it clear that there will be no safe haven for you.”

HPD Lieutenant Freddie Croft explained how the operation targeted young people: “Children are the most defenseless and innocent among us. So if we’re going to focus our resources on the Houston Police Department, our goal is to find these victims. Typically, we’ve done a really good job of finding young people with the way we work and the tactics we use. And usually when we find them, there’s a smuggler with them.”

Croft announced that investigations are continuing: “The arrests are just the beginning of the investigation. Typically these traffickers have other victims, especially those who tend to lure and exploit young people. “We continue to investigate to identify additional victims and bring the criminals to justice.”

Donna Hansen, Chief of the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit, reaffirmed her commitment to holding criminals accountable.

“We appreciate that (HPD) provides us with a knowledge base on how to target traffickers for the right types of cases. And we are committed to seeking justice on behalf of each and every victim of human trafficking. And we will ensure that these criminals are sent where they belong.”

Officials reiterated that interagency cooperation was key to the success of the operation. Gable thanked the Department of Public Safety, Texas Rangers and local law enforcement, as well as NGOs such as the YMCA and The Landing, for their contributions.

Officials urged parents and community members to be vigilant and proactive in protecting children from online predators. Croft noted that the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is a vital resource for families.

“For anyone looking for resources in terms of child abuse, children are always being targeted by criminals online,” Croft said. “Talk to your kids, understand their online habits, and stay engaged.”