U.S. Marshals in Ohio found 45 missing children in the largest trafficking rescue operation in state history.
Operation Autumn Hope was coordinated by the Ohio Organized Crime Commission and Attorney General Dave Yost. Investigators focused on rescuing trafficking victims, missing children, and arresting sex offenders.
According to prosecutors, 109 victims of human trafficking, including 45 minors, were saved during the operation. In total, more than 70 cases of missing and exploited children were solved.
This October, @FBICincinnati was one of over 50 agencies to participate in Operation Autumn Hope. Law enforcement partners in Ohio rescued 109 human trafficking survivors and recovered 45 children. Read about our work with our partners at https://t.co/rnESdfECrr. @USMarshalsHQ pic.twitter.com/DXyapc9jPF
— FBI (@FBI) October 26, 2020
In addition, the authorities were able to detain 22 alleged criminals who were planning to have sex with minors — including a pastor, students and a rehabilitation counselor. Another 157 people were detained on a number of other charges.
Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin noted that attackers “have shamelessly targeted the most innocent and defenseless members of our society,” adding that Operation Autumn Hope “sends a loud and clear message: we are watching you, we will catch you, and we will protect our children ”.
