Florida law enforcement officials have arrested 157 individuals, including 25 illegal immigrants, during a human trafficking operation.
In a press conference, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, along with representatives from other law enforcement agencies, announced the results of “Operation Autumn Sweep.” The operation led to the arrest of 157 suspects involved in various prostitution-related offenses and the identification of four potential human trafficking victims.
A total of 96 suspects were arrested for soliciting prostitution, and 35 felonies and 201 misdemeanors were issued. The operation was cut short due to Hurricane Milton but still resulted in significant arrests.
Among the arrested individuals, 25 were undocumented immigrants from countries including Cuba, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Venezuela. Sheriff Judd criticized the U.S. federal government for facilitating the entry of these individuals into the United States.
He shared the story of a female suspect who entered the United States illegally with her child. The woman received assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol, including free housing, food, and medical care, before being transported to Chicago.
Judd emphasised the U.S. government’s complicity in human trafficking and the flow of fentanyl across the southern border. He criticised U.S. federal politicians for their response to the drug crisis, which has resulted in thousands of deaths.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.
In addition to the illegal immigrants, the arrests included individuals from various backgrounds, including married couples, government assistance recipients, and individuals possessing illegal drugs and firearms.
The ages of the arrested individuals ranged from 15 to 61.
