Texas Border Business
MIDLAND – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local, state and federal law enforcement made 18 arrests and rescued two victims – including one child – during a joint human trafficking operation throughout the Permian Basin during October.
Led by DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Special Agents, the multi-jurisdictional operation was supported by Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers, Office of the Attorney General (OAG), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Midland Police Department, Odessa Police Department, Midland Co. Sheriff’s Office, Lamesa Police Department, Ector Co. ISD Police and Ector Co. Sheriff’s Office.
DPS focuses efforts to combat human trafficking by utilizing a victim-centered approach, which places equal importance and value on the identification, recovery, safety and stabilization of victims in addition to the investigation and prosecution of traffickers. Once a victim is identified, the department can connect them to critical services that will prevent further victimization. DPS rescued two victims under this recent operation, including one juvenile and one adult.
The department reminds Texans that public awareness is vital to preventing and combating human trafficking. If you see signs of human trafficking, call 911 immediately to report it and be ready to give as many details as possible. You can also report an incident on iWatchTexas or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “BeFree” to 233733.
(DPS – West Texas Region) Texas DPS
