Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced on September 28 the successful dismantling of a vast sex trafficking ring. This monumental operation resulted in the arrest of 219 suspects from various parts of the U.S., including California.
Originating on September 19, the seven-day sting uncovered 21 potential victims of sex trafficking, detained 119 individuals on prostitution charges, and resulted in two notable arrests on human trafficking charges – described by Sheriff Judd as “A life felony.”
Among the suspects, Freddy Escolona from Chicago, Illinois, and Maria Guzman from Orlando, Florida, were allegedly operating from an Orlando hotel, orchestrating “dates” with victims for monetary gains.
Sheriff Judd expressed gratitude to various police departments and agencies, including Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Auburndale PD, Bartow PD, Davenport PD, among others, for their unwavering commitment and collaboration. Several social service organizations were instrumental in ensuring victims received the necessary care and support.
“This operation not only led to the most significant number of arrests in a single operation but also aided 21 human trafficking victims,” Judd commented, referencing a previous operation in February where 24 victims were identified. “This brings the total to 45 victims rescued this year.”
Highlighting the operation’s unprecedented scale, Sheriff Judd declared to WFLA News Channel 8 that this was “the single largest operation of its kind” in the sheriff’s office history.
Intriguing findings from the Polk County sex trafficking sting, as detailed in a press release, revealed that 35 arrestees are suspected of being undocumented immigrants from countries including Cuba, Chile, and Mexico. Surprisingly, 41 claimed to be married, 13 received government aid, and many carried illegal drugs and weapons. Age of the arrested ranged from 76 years to as young as 18.
For victims or anyone affected by human trafficking and seeking legal support, please contact the dedicated professionals at Women’s Rights Group. Our team of lawyers are equipped to provide legal assistance and resources for any individuals caught in the clutches of human trafficking. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation.
