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KANSAS CITY, Missouri (KMBC) — Help is available. If you or someone you know is involved in human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.
Nearly 20 people were arrested and multiple others rescued, including children, in anti-trafficking operations during the World Cup in Kansas City.
The FBI Kansas City division announced final results from its efforts to combat child exploitation and human trafficking during the tournament.
Human trafficking is the exploitation of a person for services or sex through force or coercion. The FBI said any exploitation of a minor is considered trafficking.
In total, 19 people were arrested on state and federal charges. Nine children were found and nine victims were offered resources.
“While it is an unfortunate fact that numbers like this confirm this threat is still one that exists in our community, I am proud of the work of all the partners involved to help us on this surge,” said Chris Ormerod, FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge, in a news release. “Today’s announcement underscores the collective effort law enforcement has and will continue to place on ensuring vulnerable victims are recovered and their abusers face justice.”
More than 15 law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Kansas City Police Department, collaborated throughout the 17 operations.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force was a major part of the success of the operation. The task force is made up of FBI agents and officers with KCPD, the Overland Park Police Department, Independence Police Department, Olathe Police Department and the Missouri State Technical Assistance Team.
A number of other agencies and groups were involved in assisting as well.
“I am proud of the work being done alongside our federal, state and local partners. KCPD is thankful for operations like these where vulnerable victims are rescued and predatory offenders are arrested,” KCPD Chief Stacey Graves said. “Collectively, we will continue the work in making Kansas City and our region safer.”
Anyone who needs help or has information about human trafficking can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888, text the hotline at 233733 or chat online at humantraffickinghotline.org/chat.
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