A massive human trafficking sting operation in Polk County, Florida, known as “Operation Autumn Sweep,” led to the arrest of 157 individuals, including three Disney employees and 25 illegal immigrants, authorities revealed on Thursday. The operation also resulted in the rescue of four potential human trafficking victims, adding to the urgency of addressing trafficking and exploitation issues in the area.
The suspects arrested were accused of a variety of offenses, including soliciting prostitution, offering to commit prostitution, and more serious charges involving human trafficking. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd held a press conference Thursday to discuss the results of the sting. According to Judd, among the arrested were 47 individuals charged with prostitution, 96 who were clients soliciting sex, one human trafficker, and 14 suspects with additional charges.
Sheriff Grady Judd says 25 illegal immigrants were arrested during Operation Autumn Sweep in Florida/USA:
“They were here because we have a federal government that enabled these criminals to come into the country.” pic.twitter.com/Ap0tDRdX7b
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Judd provided more context regarding the demographics of those arrested, noting that the group collectively had an extensive criminal history, with 327 prior