Los Angeles:  In observance of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, The Los Angeles Police Department (in partnership with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Regional Human Trafficking Task Force, and 82 law enforcement agencies supported by various victim advocacy groups) conducted a statewide operation that focused on the rescue of commercially sexually exploited victims and the apprehension of their exploiters.

Operation Reclaim and Rebuild occurred during the week of January 22, 2023, through January 28, 2023. Investigators across the state conducted operations to raise public awareness of human trafficking by searching for potential sex trafficking victims, arresting their exploiters, and investigating other prostitution-related crimes.

Operation Reclaim and Rebuild Stats page 1
Operation Reclaim and Rebuild Stats page 2

The operation resulted in the arrest of 368 suspects statewide for various criminal charges. One hundred ninety-five exploiters were arrested, and six minors were rescued from possible exploiters. In addition, 125 adults were identified as trafficking victims and they  received appropriate victim services.  All recovered minors were placed in protective custody and will receive assistance from the  Department of Children and Family Services and victim advocacy partners.

The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, social service departments, victim advocacy groups, and community stakeholders made this operation a success.   Most importantly, 131 victims of sexual exploitation were recovered from their difficult environments and  were offered suitable services.

Anyone with information on this crime or any other crimes related to Human Trafficking, should call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by logging on to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may remain anonymous.