Sting rescues 20 teens from life of prostitution in metro Denver

A news release from the FBI’s Philadelphia Division said that two underage victims were recovered and two pimps were arrested in the Philadelphia area as part of the operation.

Under federal law, anyone under the age of 18 induced into commercial sex is a victim of sex trafficking – regardless of whether the trafficker uses force.

During Operation Cross Country, about 100 victim specialists from the FBI’s Office for Victim Assistance provided help on scene that included crisis intervention, food, clothing, shelter and medical aid. “The number of children recovered and pimps arrested in this year’s operation highlights the importance of these efforts today and every day in protecting our children”.

Officials said 52 suspected johns were also arrested in the sting.

“A lot of times you think this is a problem that most often affects large metropolitan areas”, added Warren County Sheriff Martin Pace.

According to the Department of Justice, Charlotte is in the top 10 nationally for sex trafficking.

“It’s not enough to respond to trafficking – we have to stop it so girls are not vulnerable to traffickers”, O’Malley said.

A nationwide sting effort found her, and on Tuesday, she reunited with her family and has started a rehabilitation program, Colorado 9 News reported.

As part of Operation Cross Country IX, more than 500 law enforcement officials conducted both “in-call” and “out-call” operations in hotels, casinos, truck stops and other known areas frequented by prostitutes, sex traffickers and their customers.

“This is happening to our own children in our own backyards”, Special Agent in Charge Thomas Ravenelle said.

The children rescued were one in Portland, two in Vancouver, and one in Beaverton.

“Human trafficking is a monstrous and devastating crime that steals lives and degrades our nation”, Attorney General Loretta Lynch said in a press release.