2-Day Online Undercover Operation In Tampa Bay Focused On Sex Crimes

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — Thirteen suspects accused of human trafficking by Tampa Bay police agencies were arrested in a two-day online undercover operation during February, a St. Petersburg police news release said.

Six of the 13 arrested face human trafficking charges, five face charges offering to commit prostitution or soliciting prostitution, and two are charged with traveling to meet a minor for sexual activity.

St. Pete police directed the operation with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (the Tampa, Orlando, and Sarasota field offices), Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Tampa Police Department, Largo Police Department, Temple Terrace Police Department, Zephyrhills Police Department, Bradenton Police Department, and the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Selah Freedom and Created Women of Tampa offered non-governmental organizational support for the task force operation.