Pastor, Local Teacher Busted In Human Trafficking Operation By Hillsborough County Sheriff

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — A pastor and a teacher were among 125 men arrested on human trafficking charges during the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Operation Round-Up, a news release said.

The operation lasted for 20 days — Aug. 4 to Oct. 13. Undercover detectives targeted criminals who attempted to prey upon minors, sought sex for themselves or exploited victims through human trafficking, law enforcement authorities said.

“Individuals who make a conscious choice and effort to take advantage of others through human trafficking have no room in Hillsborough County,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “Our approach and efforts year-round are proactive and relentless. Our strong team of detectives will continue to work tirelessly to takedown and put a stop to human trafficking.”

Detectives arrested Joel Velasco, 38, a Hillsborough County Public School teacher, and Samuel Phillips Jr., 44, a pastor at Be Limitless Church.

“These men who were all held to a standard of trust and respect were all arrested for soliciting another to commit prostitution,” Chronister said.

This operation also helped rescue four women and one teenager from the heinous grasp of human trafficking, Chronister said. The victims were recovered and referred to Selah Freedom, which then offered needed support and resources.

Deputies also arrested two men on charges of transmission of harmful material to a minor, one of whom was charged with traveling to meet a minor after using comp services/devices to solicit certain acts.

Because of the unfortunate success of this operation and others alike, HCSO has created a human trafficking squad. This team of 12 dedicated members will uphold the commitment to ending human trafficking in Hillsborough County by reducing the demand, and rescuing victims, according to Chronister.

For the full list of suspects, click here.

You can report suspected human trafficking by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.