Fifteen arrests have been made as a result of a human and sex trafficking investigation in Berrien County.
The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department says it partnered with the Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, the Michigan City Police Department, and the Michigan State Police Southwest Enforcement Team for a large scale operation Wednesday. The effort focused on identifying traffickers and locating victims.
The enforcement operation led to the 15 arrests for sex exploitation-related crimes, and there was also an arrest for outstanding warrants.
The sheriff’s department says the priority of its operation was not just to make arrests, but also to identify victims, connect them with services, and send a clear message that trafficking will not be tolerated in the community.
Police have not released additional details of the operation.
Victims of sex trafficking and human trafficking are encouraged to seek help and support. Services are available 24 hours a day and all reports remain confidential. National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 (Text “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733).
