Friday, Attorney General Fitch announced the successful conclusion of ten days of human trafficking operations across the State. In total, investigators encountered 49 potential victims; made 13 arrests for crimes including human trafficking, promoting prostitution, and statutory rape; and uncovered multiple leads that may mean additional arrests and victim recoveries in the future.
“I witnessed the outstanding work of these law enforcement officers and victim advocates in action,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “Their professionalism, skill, and true compassion for the victims they encounter is inspiring. They embody the commitment of this Office, and I believe the commitment of the people of Mississippi, to end the scourge of human trafficking in our communities and to help its victims move forward with hope and dignity.”
Operations were conducted between November 1st and 10th in Southaven, Starkville, Jackson, Meridian, Hattiesburg, and in Harrison and Jackson Counties.
Attorney General’s Office investigators and prosecutors teamed up with law enforcement from Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office, Biloxi Police Department, Columbia Police Department, Madison Police Department, Meridian Police Department, Pearl Police Department, Southaven Police Department, Starkville Police Department, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Mississippi Department of Corrections, Mississippi Gaming Commission, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“This is about helping people. It is about achieving justice. And it is about ensuring Mississippi parents can rest easy at night knowing their children are safe,” continued General Fitch. “We will continue to work with our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement to make it clear to traffickers that Mississippi’s daughters and sons are off-limits.”
Citizens who want to report suspected human trafficking can call in their tips to 1-888-373-7888 or text INFO to 233733.
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