ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. – Six individuals are facing charges after a coordinated human trafficking operation in Zephyrhills, authorities announced Tuesday.
The Zephyrhills Police Department (ZPD), working closely with the Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force, led the effort aimed at identifying and apprehending individuals involved in trafficking-related crimes.
The operation leveraged undercover officers and investigators to identify suspects allegedly soliciting or engaging in illegal activities linked to human trafficking. According to the ZPD, the arrests were made without incident.
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This sting was a collaborative effort, involving multiple law enforcement agencies and support organizations. Key partners included the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), St. Petersburg Police Department, Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the More Too Life Foundation, a non-governmental organization dedicated to assisting trafficking survivors.
“This operation emphasizes our department’s ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and holding traffickers accountable,” said Zephyrhills Police Chief Derek Brewer. He highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation, stating, “We are proud to stand alongside our fellow agencies in the fight against human trafficking and will continue working to ensure the safety of our community.”
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The investigation and subsequent arrests underscore a continued focus by regional law enforcement on combating human trafficking across the Tampa Bay area. The six individuals arrested face charges related to human trafficking, solicitation, and associated offenses.
The Zephyrhills Police Department expressed gratitude to all participating agencies and organizations for their partnership, resources, and commitment to the operation’s critical mission.
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