HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Dozens of human trafficking victims were freed and 37 arrests were made during a multi-agency operation led by the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
The six-night operation began on July 29 and used undercover officers to rescue those being held against their will and connect them with resources to escape their abusers.
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The operation ended Aug. 3, when officers made contact with human trafficking victims and their traffickers. The victims were detained and taken to a fire department where a team of social service providers were waiting to help.
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Officials want the public to know that human trafficking does not discriminate, and it is a very possible fate for many women in the area.
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Among the 37 arrests, six were charged with promotion of prostitution.
"Human trafficking is an epidemic that plagues communities across our nation," said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.