Fort Bend human trafficking stings lead to 26 arrests, 17 rescues, district attorney’s office says.

Operation Sapphire in Meadows Place during September was a rescue mission for human trafficking victims. Nine traffickers or “pimps” were arrested. Seventeen victims were rescued; these included 15 adult women, one adult man and one underage girl.

“Humans trafficking does not discriminate,” said Mark Hanna, chief of the DA office's special crimes division. “It can be any sex, any age, all over the demographics.”

Hanna made his comments at a news conference with officials, such as District Attorney Brian Middleton and Sheriff Eric Fagan. A poster showing mugshots of all 17  “Johns” was on display.

“The poster is there to demonstrate that these are real people and this is really happening,” said Hanna. “We're going to continue to investigate this, and if you engage in this kind of behavior, then your picture may be up on that poster someday. So we're trying to make sure that the community knows that we're aware of what's going on out there and we'd like to stop it.”

According to the FBCDA's office, 31 charges were filed including compelling, promoting, and soliciting prostitution charges, trafficking of a person, and gun or drug-related charges.

“Human trafficking is a crime that occurs in plain sight,” said Middleton. “If you think there's something unsavory going on, say something, contact your local authorities and describe what you've seen. Because by making that tip, you may be saving a life.”

Middleton shared a list of tell-tale signs:

• Excessive traffic at a particular residence.
• Massage parlors that have their windows covered or blacked out, sometimes with a neon sign at the entrance. The doors are locked, and you have to be buzzed in.
• Women and children who seem uncomfortable with the people they're with.

 “Trafficking victims are in a cycle of abuse and violence just like domestic violence victims and sometimes it takes repeated efforts to break free, and for the same reasons as DV – shelter, food, security,” said Wesley Wittig, spokesperson for the FBCDA. “Meaning it is better to suffer the abuse than to be homeless with no food and nowhere to turn.  The traffickers maintain control of their victims so it is harder to realize there is another world out there than it would be for you and me.”

The sting made the county safer, Middleton said.

“Our law enforcement officers and partnering agencies taking part in these operations made a significant impact in the sex-trafficking trade right here in Fort Bend County,” said Middleton. “Whether in a residential neighborhood or commercial establishment, we are watching. And once we have the evidence to act upon, we will come for you. Fort Bend County is, and will continue to be, one the safest places to live because of operations like these. We are setting the tone – do not come to Fort Bend County to commit crime.”

[email protected]