A human trafficking sting operation in Florida led to the arrest of 157 individuals, including 25 illegal immigrants, many of whom received federal benefits after entering the U.S. The sting, named “Operation Autumn Sweep,” was conducted by Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd and involved multiple law enforcement agencies. The operation targeted prostitution, human trafficking, and the sexual exploitation of minors.
Among those arrested, 96 were charged with soliciting prostitution, and three were arrested for attempting to sexually exploit children. Four victims of human trafficking were identified during the operation, which started in early October.
Sheriff Judd emphasized the impact of illegal immigration on the arrests, noting that 25 of those detained were in the U.S. illegally. These individuals, from countries such as Honduras and Cuba, were found to have received federal benefits like Medicaid upon entering the U.S. “Sixteen percent of these total arrests were people who should not even have been in this country,” Judd said, criticizing the government’s handling of the border.
One woman, who entered the U.S. illegally with her child, had received free transportation and housing, prompting Judd to criticize the use of taxpayer dollars to support illegal immigrants. Judd stated that the government is complicit in human trafficking by enabling these criminals to enter the country and providing them with resources.
The sting operation was cut short due to Hurricane Milton, but Judd praised the team for their success in making 157 arrests and identifying victims of trafficking. The sheriff continued to emphasize the need for stronger border security and more action against human trafficking.
